My day usually began with a short walk to the metro station or bus stop – because in Seville, public transport is a quick, cheap and easy way to get anywhere. Immediately after my arrival, I purchased a public transport ticket, which proved to be a game changer. It made my journey to university relaxed and gave me a glimpse into the colourful city life every morning.

 

After class, I often went to the university's own gym, which was modernly equipped and offered a great opportunity to clear my head. In the evenings, I often met up with friends for tapas, walks through the old town or spontaneous trips – Seville simply has something to offer at any time of the day.

 

Getting started in Spanish university life was surprisingly easy. On the first day, we received our timetable and a detailed tour of the campus – we immediately felt welcome. The courses were practical, interactive and placed a lot of emphasis on presentations, group work and individual creativity. The open atmosphere was particularly pleasant: the lecturers were very helpful and always had an open ear for questions or concerns.

And the best part? Most of the exams were multiple choice, which significantly reduced exam stress.

 

What made my semester abroad in Seville really special was not only my studies, but above all life in this city – and the people who shape it. Seville has its own unique cultural identity, almost like a small world unto itself. Even many Spaniards from other regions describe the city as something very special – and I can only confirm that.

 

The community in Seville is incredibly lively, warm and tradition-conscious. You immediately sense that there is a strong sense of cohesion here and that life takes place outside on the streets. The tapas culture is not only a culinary highlight – many of the restaurants have grown historically, are family-run and offer unparalleled quality. It is completely normal to still be sitting in a crowded bar at 10 p.m. or even 1 a.m. – and not just with young people. Even older Sevillians, some over 90 years old, sit outside late at night, enjoying a cold drink and lively conversation. This zest for life and openness impressed me deeply.

Whether it's spontaneous flamenco evenings, street festivals or just a stroll through the old town – there's always something going on in Seville. It almost seems as if the city never sleeps. This energy, combined with deep-rooted tradition, creates an atmosphere that simply has to be experienced.

 

Two experiences that particularly shaped my semester abroad in Seville were Semana Santa and Feria de Abril – two festivals that are deeply rooted in Andalusian culture and transform the city into a world of its own.

During Semana Santa, Holy Week before Easter, impressive processions wind their way through the streets. Thousands of people line the streets to see the elaborately decorated statues of saints, accompanied by music, incense and an almost reverential silence. Even if you are not religious, you can feel the emotional depth and significance of this event for the local people.

Just a few weeks later, the Feria de Abril follows – a colourful folk festival full of joie de vivre. Dressed in traditional flamenco costumes, the people of Seville dance to live music in the ‘casetas’, small festival tents, eat tapas and celebrate until the early hours of the morning. It was an incredible feeling to be part of this exuberant atmosphere – a festival that combines tradition and joie de vivre in a unique way.

 

I look back on an intense, enriching time that has helped me grow both personally and professionally. I can really recommend a semester abroad to anyone who has the opportunity – it's worth it in every way.

 

Now I am looking forward to my next internship at Rutronik Elektronische Bauelemente GmbH, with lots of new impressions and experiences under my belt.

 

Thank you to Rutronik and the DHBW for this great opportunity – and to everyone who shared this experience with me!