Lucha Libre & Chilaquiles: Juliane's year abroad in Mexico

As part of her two semesters abroad in the International Business Management program at HOK | University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol, Juliane spent a year at the Universidad de Guadalajara in Mexico. Her choice of the partner university was driven by the desire to learn Spanish, experience a new culture firsthand, and broaden her horizons both academically and personally.

There, she encountered a completely new student life, characterized by international contacts, cultural differences, and numerous experiences that extended far beyond the classroom. 

BETWEEN CAMPUS, CHILAQUILES, AND "CULTURE SHOCK"

Juliane's daily routine at the university often began early in the morning. On some days, lectures started as early as 7:00 a.m., so she traveled to the university either by Uber or metro. After her first class, breakfast at the comedor was often a must before continuing with further courses. She frequently spent the afternoon in the library across from the university, where she completed exercises and worked on her assignments.

Besides her studies, life in Mexico left many lasting impressions. Juliane was particularly impressed by the warmth of the people and the openness with which she was welcomed. At the same time, the new daily routine required a change of perspective: flexibility and spontaneity play a much larger role in Mexico than in Europe. It was precisely this relaxed approach to the unexpected that made her stay such an enriching experience.

Growing Linguistically, Becoming Personally Stronger

A defining aspect of Juliane's year abroad was her personal development. When she arrived in Mexico, she spoke hardly any Spanish. However, through daily interaction with Mexican friends and consistently using the language in everyday life, she improved her skills step by step. Today, she looks back with pride on having developed her language skills to the point where she can communicate fluently.

Today, she describes herself as more open, self-confident, and courageous in dealing with new people and unfamiliar situations. The many encounters, the shared learning, and living in a new environment have profoundly shaped her. Among her personal highlights was a trip to a Lucha Libre (professional wrestling) event in Mexico City with her brother and uncle. For her, it was not only a particularly entertaining experience but also a moment that uniquely captured the cultural diversity and joie de vivre of Mexico.

Looking back, Juliane's semester abroad was far more than just a study abroad experience. It was a time in which she grew beyond her own expectations—linguistically, academically, and personally. She particularly remembers the openness of the people, the many new friendships, and the feeling of quickly settling in in a foreign environment. Her year abroad in Mexico thus became an experience that enriched her not only academically but also for life.

Links:

• International Business Management | pt
• International Relations Office | Info page
• Our New Brand – HOK | University of Applied Sciences Kufstein Tirol