David Reynoso

Mechanical Engineering, Class of 2020

“Studying abroad in Spain has opened my eyes to the world of engineering.”

Where did you go? What program did you do?

I went to Madrid, Spain through the program IES Madrid.

Why did you want to go abroad?

I wanted to study abroad to broaden my perspective on the world of engineering. Engineers exist all over the world, so I wanted to see the thought process and mindset of engineering students and professionals in Spain.

Did you work with anyone to help arrange this?

I constantly utilized the Center for Education Abroad to plan my semester abroad. IES also helped me with planning my experience. I also asked friends who were past study abroad students about the process in planning abroad and for tips.

How would you rate the relative ease/difficulty of arranging study abroad?

Planning my semester abroad was easy but hectic. There are many forms to fill out and you have to meet every deadline on time. I was always asking questions to make sure I had everything covered. Don’t be afraid to seek help by calling an IES representative or scheduling an appointment with someone at the Center of Education Abroad.

Were you able to take classes to satisfy degree requirements here, and if so which classes did you take?

I took two engineering classes and two electives in Spain. I took Control Systems I and Energy in Buildings, satisfying two classes I would have taken my senior year.

If you received a scholarship or any additional funding to study abroad, what did you receive?

I received the Gilman Scholarship and the IES Abroad Future Engineers Scholarship.

How important was this in enabling you to study abroad?

The scholarship was a window of opportunity for me. Without it, I do not think I would have had such a wonderful experience. It allowed me to explore the world. This was my first time crossing the ocean and using my passport. Who knew that a child of immigrants would be able to see the world? The scholarship means everything to me and my family. With the scholarship, I was able to focus more on my studies than in the US, where I have to work to help me pay tuition for that year. All my attention was shifted to studying and it reflects in my grades this past semester.

What did you gain from this experience?

Studying abroad in Spain has opened my eyes to the world of engineering. Seeing how education is treated in Spain has really made me appreciate myself for all the work I have accomplished so far.

Any particularly memorable experiences?

My most memorable experience was visiting the aqueducts of Segovia. Seeing this engineering feat from 1,900 years ago re-inspired me to fight for my future as I head into my senior year.

Any advice for students thinking about studying abroad?

Do not be afraid to ask questions to anyone from the Center of Education Abroad, your program office, and past study abroad students, including myself!

Questions? Ask David!

Email: dreynos2@u.rochester.edu