12/1/2025
This summer, sophomore Kathwari Honors student Kylin McMahon participated in WCSU’s Summer Arts and Culture Study in Málaga, Spain. Having studied Spanish since elementary school and been a member of her high school’s Spanish Honor Society, McMahon jumped at the opportunity to travel outside of the U.S. for the first time and immerse herself in Spanish culture.
McMahon enjoyed the hands-on experience of studying a language abroad. Instead of simply memorizing vocabulary words, she was able to put her language skills in practice every day. Of the program, she says, “The classes were smaller, and everybody was eager to learn.” A highlight was taking a cooking class in Spanish where she learned to make tortilla de patatas. Speaking Spanish with her local host family, McMahon learned more about language and culture through discussions.
As a Music Performance major, McMahon was fascinated by flamenco, and attending a performance was a highlight of her trip. The style of guitar and dancing was completely new to her. McMahon also enjoyed the program’s weekend trips to other cities in Andalusia, including Sevilla, Nerja, and Ronda, and learning about the region’s history and culture. Overall, McMahon believes in the benefits of studying another language. She says, “One of the most powerful skills you can have is language and communication. It helps provide not only career opportunities but also understanding across cultures.”
For students studying abroad, McMahon recommends practicing the language. As part of her class, she wrote daily diaries in Spanish, which helped her internalize new material. She also advises that cultural immersion may bring challenges, but it is worth it. “At first, things may be a bit overwhelming… but the more you practice, the more comfortable you will be,” she says.
McMahon would love to study abroad again in the future. For now, she is excited to continue her role on the Honors Council, where she enjoys being a student representative and learning about the program behind the scenes.
