Meet Martina Diaz Varela

Impact of my global learning experience

Studying abroad was one of the most impactful experiences of my university journey. Beyond the opportunity to travel, it challenged me to become more independent, adaptable, and confident. Living in a completely new environment pushed me outside my comfort zone every day, whether that was navigating a new city, meeting people from around the world, or embracing experiences I never would have had at home. By the end of the semester, I had developed a level of confidence in myself that I know will carry into both my personal and professional life.

One of the most meaningful parts of my exchange was the opportunity to reconnect with my own heritage while living in Spain. As someone with Spanish roots, being able to experience the language, traditions, and culture firsthand gave me a much deeper appreciation for my identity and family history. At the same time, studying alongside students from all over the world exposed me to countless new perspectives, cultures, and ways of thinking. Those conversations and friendships not only broadened my global understanding but also fueled my curiosity to continue learning about different cultures, communities, and the diverse experiences that shape people around the world.

Overall, my global learning experience gave me far more than academic knowledge. It strengthened my confidence, encouraged me to embrace new opportunities, and gave me a greater appreciation for the value of cultural exchange. Most importantly, it sparked a curiosity that will stay with me long after graduation-a desire to continue exploring the world, learning from others, and approaching new experiences with an open mind. It is an experience that has shaped who I am today and will continue to influence the way I approach new challenges, relationships, and opportunities in the future.

Why I chose Western

I chose to come to Western because of the incredible opportunities the university offers. From the beginning, I knew I wanted a school with a strong sense of community. As someone who is very people-oriented, it was important to me to be somewhere I could meet new people, get involved, and build lasting friendships. I also love sports, so Western's school spirit and passion for athletics really stood out to me. I was excited by the opportunity to get involved in intramurals, cheer on the Mustangs, and be part of a campus where sports bring people together. Another major reason I chose Western was because I knew I wanted to study abroad. Western's international opportunities made that goal feel achievable, and it was one of the biggest factors in my decision to attend. I was also drawn to my program and faculty, which offered a unique combination of courses and experiences that I knew would help me grow both academically and personally. Looking back, choosing Western has given me exactly the kind of university experience I was hoping for.

Other highlights from my Western experience

OWeek, Moving into Off-Campus Housing, Study Abroad, MACS Carrerchella,

A fun fact about me

I have been to Coachella

My advice for students considering going abroad

My biggest piece of advice is to take the time to choose a school and city that genuinely interests you and feels right for you. When considering your options, don’t just focus on the location-look closely at the courses offered and think about what actually sounds enjoyable and exciting to study. Finding a place that aligns with your interests and goals will make your experience much more meaningful and fulfilling.

Once you’ve made that choice, say yes to opportunities and push yourself outside your comfort zone. University goes by much faster than you expect, and some of the best experiences come from taking chances-whether that’s joining a club, attending events, meeting new people, or trying something new. The more you put yourself out there, the more you’ll grow and get out of your time there.

If you’re studying abroad, this becomes even more important. Choosing a destination that excites you and offers courses you’re genuinely interested in will set the foundation for an incredible experience. From there, embrace everything you can - travel, connect with people from different backgrounds, and take part in experiences that might feel a little intimidating at first. Those moments often become the most memorable and rewarding, helping you grow in confidence, independence, and perspective.