Auskin Barrera‑Corral’s Semester Abroad in Spain
For Auskin Barrera‑Corral, studying abroad was a decision that began with curiosity—and grew into one of the most meaningful experiences of his college career.
Originally from Spartanburg, South Carolina, Auskin is an Economics and Finance major at USC Upstate. Drawn to the close‑knit campus community and the opportunity to study business at The George Dean Johnson, Jr. School of Business and Economics, he quickly found ways to get involved, including joining the Accounting and Finance Club.
Now, during the Spring 2026 semester, Auskin is studying abroad in Tarragona, Spain, attending Universitat Rovira i Virgili, and he describes his experience as both challenging and life‑affirming.
“Now that I’ve reached the halfway mark of my program, I can confidently say that this was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”
Why He Chose to Study Abroad
Auskin’s study abroad journey began early—during his very first days at USC Upstate.
“I vividly recall attending my orientation and hearing about the opportunity to study abroad. It piqued my interest immediately.”
Spain had always been a dream destination, but turning that dream into a reality took time, reflection, and courage. He officially began planning during the second semester of his sophomore year, aware that studying abroad would require leaving behind familiarity and comfort.
“I was anxious about moving to a city on the other side of the world alone and felt unprepared.”
What pushed him forward were conversations with others who had once faced the same decision.
“I kept hearing things like, ‘I wish I had studied abroad’ or ‘I spent my favorite times studying abroad.’ I realized that one day I’d be on one side of those statements—and I wanted to be on the right side.”
Living and Learning in Spain
Adjusting to life in Spain hasn’t always been easy. Living alone, navigating a new city, and mastering public transportation tested Auskin in unexpected ways.
“I’ve never felt so out of my element as I have here.”
Even small tasks like catching a train became lessons in independence.
“There have been countless instances where I’ve narrowly missed trains or buses, and the stress of not knowing how to get back home, especially when it’s late, is overwhelming.”
Still, learning to manage discomfort became part of the growth.
“Learning to handle that discomfort has been an immense challenge.”
Moments That Make It Worth It
Among countless new experiences, one moment stands above the rest: visiting Camp Nou to watch FC Barcelona play live.
“I am a diehard Barcelona fan. I’ve grown up watching Barcelona play for as long as I can remember.”
“Watching the games through a screen is cool, but being at the stadium with all the fans, seeing the players come out, and watching the game live, it’s one of my favorite moments in my life.”
Beyond sports, Auskin’s favorite parts of studying abroad have been the connections he’s made along the way.
“Meeting wonderful people from diverse backgrounds and creating countless beautiful memories with them has been the best part.”
A Different Way of Life
Spain’s cultural rhythms surprised him in ways both big and small.
“I was shocked by how laid‑back and stress‑free people seem. It’s contagious. Days feel slower and last longer here.”
Daily habits, from long mid‑day breaks to the availability of beer at lunch, challenged his expectations and reshaped how he experiences time and balance.
“People always say Spain is slower‑paced, but I didn’t realize just how true that was until I experienced it.”