Before going abroad, I often wondered what studying in a new environment would look like. To my delight, my time at LCI Barcelona turned out to be one of the most enriching and positive experiences of my academic journey. At LCI, the focus wasn’t on exam scores but on hands-on learning, both inside and outside the classroom. Instead of being pressured to memorize obscure dates or names, my instructors emphasized applying knowledge in meaningful ways. This approach made learning not only practical but also deeply enjoyable.
During my semester abroad, we were encouraged to work on projects that demonstrated our understanding and ability to apply what we learned. Here’s a glimpse into three of the standout courses that shaped my experience at LCI:
Entrepreneurship: Turning Ideas into Action
The entrepreneurship class at LCI focused on the design thinking process, a methodology that includes five key steps: Ideate, Empathize, Define, Prototype, and Test. Throughout the course, we explored how these steps could be applied to create innovative business ideas.
For my project, I decided to focus on a solution that would make finding essential products easier, no matter where you are. One of the highlights of this class was when our professor, Nicole, who also serves as a director at CIS Abroad, took us out into the city for hands-on research. We visited several grocery stores and conducted interviews with locals, gaining valuable insights into community needs and behaviors.
This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone as I interacted with locals and uncovered hidden gems in Barcelona’s food scene. By the end of the semester, I had developed a comprehensive project encapsulating all my research and learning. As someone passionate about entrepreneurship, this class was not only invaluable but also incredibly fun!
Fashion Sociology: Exploring the significance of Fashion
Fashion Sociology offered a fascinating dive into the history of fashion and its relevance in today’s society. From iconic brands like Cartier to innovators like Loie Fuller, we explored how fashion has shaped and been shaped by cultural movements.
One unforgettable experience was our visit to the Agnès Varda exhibition. Varda, a renowned filmmaker, captured raw human experiences in her work. Her focus on identity resonated deeply with our class discussions about fashion as a form of self-expression. This excursion allowed us to connect her ideals with our studies in a tangible way.
The semester culminated in the creation of our very own fashion magazine, a project that combined everything we had learned into something creative and personal. Looking at that magazine now feels like holding a piece of Barcelona itself, a reminder of the memories and lessons I gained during this class.
Past and Present Barcelona: A Living History Lesson
As its name suggests, Past and Present Barcelona was all about exploring the city’s rich history alongside its modern-day significance. Every other class felt like having a personal guide take us through Barcelona’s incredible sights while connecting them to what we had learned.
We started by examining ancient Roman ruins scattered across the city before moving on to architectural masterpieces by Antoni Gaudí, such as Casa Batlló. Toward the end of the semester, we explored Montjuïc, discovering areas developed for the Olympics held there.
What stood out most about this course was its emphasis on reflection rather than memorization. After each field trip, we wrote about our experiences—what we saw, learned, and felt. This approach deepened my appreciation for Barcelona’s history and culture, leaving me feeling more connected to the city than ever before.
Why LCI Barcelona Stands Out
Studying at LCI Barcelona was unlike any traditional academic experience I’ve had. Their unique approach to education, centered on applied learning, helped me grow academically while fostering creativity and curiosity. If you thrive in hands-on environments and value experiential learning over conventional methods, LCI is the perfect place for you.
My time at LCI wasn’t just about earning credits; it was about gaining skills, perspectives, and memories that will last a lifetime. For anyone considering studying abroad or stepping outside their educational comfort zone, I cannot recommend LCI Barcelona enough!
Check out all of our programs in Barcelona here!
Blog by Ava Howlett, University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth
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