Ellie Cardillo of the women's soccer team spent the Spring 2025 semester in Spain and writes about her time from the Iberian Peninsula. Here is her experience...

By Ellie Cardillo '26

Ever since I was a kid, I KNEW I wanted to study abroad. Being a double major in Hispanic Studies and Sociology, I thought spending a semester in a Spanish speaking country would allow me to both immerse myself in the language and culture, while also gaining sociological insights on a completely different place and group of people. And it was one the most life-changing experiences I have ever had. 
 
Even though I always knew I wanted to go abroad, it was not until WAC Women's Soccer took on Barcelona in the spring of 2024, that I fell in love with Spain and everything it had to offer. During my time abroad, I spent four months in Segovia, Spain, a town about an hour outside of Madrid. I also traveled to the Czech Republic, France, England, Scotland, Portugal and Morocco. 
 
Throughout my time in Segovia, I was fortunate enough to play with a Spanish futbol sala (futsal) team. It was an indoor team, making it a much faster pace and on top of that it was a great opportunity for me to practice my Spanish. The team welcomed me with open arms, and it was a heartwarming experience to be able to connect with other girls through our shared love of soccer. 
 
The two highlights that come to mind when I think about my time abroad are when my parents and many of my friend's parents all met up in Sitges, which is about an hour from Barcelona. We rented a big house and were all able to be reunited with our parents! It was an amazing experience and being able to relax and swim in the Mediterranean Sea was the perfect end of semester treat. Secondly, on my way back to the States, I spent one night in Morocco. This was one of the most impactful experiences of my life. I stayed In Rabat with my friend Tilelli's Uncle. I was able to meet Til's Mahelou (Grandma) who only spoke Arabic, and although we could not actually communicate with words, we got along so well through sharing food, gestures, and smiles. It was an honor to be welcomed into their culture. (Shoutout Til) 
 
I am eternally in debt and forever grateful to my parents and coaches who pushed me to go abroad and make my dream a livable reality. 
 
I also want to acknowledge that studying abroad, especially for four months in another country, is a deeply privileged opportunity. I was fortunate to travel, explore, and return home safely—an experience not accessible to many people.  I carry that awareness with me, and it's a reminder of the importance of advocating for broader access to global experiences and education.
 
I am ecstatic about returning to Chestertown in the Fall! To any student that is hesitant about going abroad, GO!  Experience is knowledge and knowledge is power. Maryland isn't going anywhere, but the opportunity to move across the world might be. 

GALLERY