Studying in Salamanca

By Tomek Wisnicky, Teen Summer Language Camp Spain-Salamanca Summer 2025

Greenheart Travel knows the power of travel. That is why we’re committed to helping people who haven’t had the chance to be fully immersed in a new culture, travel, and live abroad for the first time. Every year, Greenheart Travel offers First Time Traveler scholarships to help new travelers get out and meet others around the world. Recently Tomek won a First Time Traveler scholarship to attend Greenheart Travel’s Teen Language Camp in Spain. Here is a little bit about his first independent travel experience as a 14-year-old!

Studying Spanish in Salamanca for three weeks was more than just an academic experience—it was an eye-opening journey into a culture rich with history, warmth, and everyday magic. Nestled in the heart of Spain, Salamanca is known for its stunning golden sandstone architecture, world renowned university, and most importantly, its deeply ingrained academic spirit. For someone passionate about learning languages, this city offered the perfect classroom.

The School Experience

Each morning began with a short walk to school through narrow, cobblestone streets lined with cafés and small bookstores. The Spanish classes were immersive, interactive, and incredibly rewarding. Unlike the traditional classroom settings I was used to, these lessons were fully conducted in Spanish from the very beginning. At first, it was challenging—trying to follow grammar explanations or participate in fast-paced discussions felt overwhelming. But by the second week, I noticed myself responding more quickly and thinking in Spanish without translating every sentence in my head. The instructors were not only native speakers but also incredibly passionate about teaching. They used dynamic methods like role-playing, debates, group games, and real-life scenarios to reinforce vocabulary and grammar. We learned about verb conjugations, prepositions, and subjunctive moods in the classroom—but we practiced them in the cafes, markets, and streets of Salamanca.

Cultural Immersion Beyond the Classroom

What truly made the experience special was how much learning happened outside the school. After classes, my classmates and I explored the city, chatting in Spanish as much as possible. Whether we were ordering tapas at a local bar, shopping at the market, or asking for directions, every interaction was a chance to practice and grow.

One afternoon, we visited the Universidad de Salamanca, the oldest university in Spain. Walking through its historic halls, I felt a deep connection to the generations of students who had come before me. It inspired me to think about the power of language—not just as a means of communication, but as a bridge between cultures and centuries.

Challenges and Breakthroughs

Living in a Spanish-speaking environment came with its fair share of challenges. There were moments of frustration—misunderstandings, feeling lost in conversations, or blanking out when trying to speak. But these moments were also opportunities to learn. Every mistake taught me something. By the end of the program, I felt much more confident in my abilities. I even found myself dreaming in Spanish! What surprised me most was how much fun language learning could be when it was connected to real life. Learning about the subjunctive mood while discussing travel dreams, or practicing imperatives while giving directions to tourists, made everything click.

Reflections

Looking back, the Salamanca experience was a perfect blend of structured learning and spontaneous discovery. It deepened my love for the Spanish language and taught me the value of stepping outside my comfort zone. I didn’t just study Spanish—I lived it. If anyone is considering a short-term study abroad program, I can’t recommend it enough. You’ll come back with more than improved language skills—you’ll come back with new perspectives, lasting friendships, and stories you’ll cherish forever.

Thanks for sharing your story Tomek!

Interested in learning about how you can follow in Tomek’s footsteps?

Click on these links to learn more about Greenheart’s Teen Summer Language programs and scholarship opportunities!