What should be my major in college if I want to live and work in Spain?
I am currently a junior in high school and while you may think that's sort of young to already have a future planned out, I like to think ahead. I used to live in Europe, so Spain is where I've wanted to go to for some time now, and as I'm a citizen of one of the EU Member States, but living in the US now, I'm already set for living and working over there. I have pretty much ruled out majoring in the Spanish language, as I had originally planned, since it seems pretty useless to have in a Spanish-speaking country, so now I am trying to decide on a major before I graduate high school, as I like to have things planned out. I've already asked a similar question in the 'University' category, but I haven't received many answers. Someone suggested that I instead major in communications, foreign relationships, or journalism, but I want to be sure that I'm actually instrested in a major before I pursue it. My interests include language (foreign and English), travel, writing, literature analysis, music, many types of art, culture, some psychology and some biology. I don't like mathematics, physics, chemistry (I don't *think* I'll like this, as I have zero interest in math), and anything like marketing or accounting. I know I might sound kind of picky, but it's just to give a general idea of my personality and aspirations. For those of you who live/have lived in Spain, what do you think would be really useful to study in a good college? If I weren't going to live in a Spanish-speaking country, then I'd most definitely major in the language, but then I'd probably have to teach it (which is not the plan at all), and if I didn't practice it enough, I'd lose the language. I also plan on learning at least French or Italian after becoming fluent in Spanish (yes, I am pretty confident). I'm wondering if it would be helpful to minor in Spanish while majoring in something like journalism, as I want to be fluent in the language for sure. Thanks for taking the time to read this. Any detailed responses would be greatly appreciated! ;) Anthropology? I never thought about that. I will look into that major. I'm also a citizen of England, since my dad was born there and we used to live there. :) Going back to Europe feels like going home for me. I'd love it if I could live somewhere close to France, since I've traveled to Paris twice now and I adore the people and the language. :D There may be some possibility of me transferring to school over there, money-wise anyway, but I'm not entirely sure I'd be prepared enough to stay there myself, especially since I'd rather have a more comfortable feel of the language before jumping right in. Thanks for telling me about the considerations they make there, though. It looks like I'm going to have to think all of this through reallllly thoroughly. :P
Other - Spain - 5 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Yikes - you are confident =] Good luck with French, though. A bit difficult for some, but absolutely gorgeous. What about majoring in anthropology ? You get language, history, writing, travel, art, culture, and biology all rolled into one ! Ah, and if you don't mind me asking, where else are you a citizen ?
2 :
I won't be giving you any answers because I'm in the exact same predicament! :( We even have the same likes and dislikes too! I studied fashion design in university for one month and then move to New York, but my plan completely changed recently. Now I want to do Communications Studies and move to Barcelona. However, I will double major in communications AND Spanish since I want to be fluent in the language also. Good luck!!!
3 :
Neurosurgery. Anthropology???? I think they have their share of anthropologists there already. I don't think they need any foreign ones. Possibly some sort of really technical work. What you do has to be something that they don't already train their natives in, which is in high demand. Difficult to predict what that will be in ten years, after you have finished four years of university, three of med school, a couple of years of residency and specialization, etc. You might guess wrong. Actually, as an EU citizen, things are a bit less bleak. With fluent English, English as a second language, and a teaching degree seem rather applicable, and you can get work easily in that...I didn't read carefully enough, so while the top part of my answer applies to anyone, EU citizens have more flexibility....at least for the time being...thing is this recession we are ALL entering, Spain is already deeply entrenched from what I have been hearing...it hit them before it hit in the US. Of course, by the time you finish school, it will very likely have swung the other way. And you are not so "picky". It's your career, and you want to study and specialize in something you will enjoy! Think of how many teachers there are out there who DID enjoy their careers, but have burned out. You should AT LEAST start with something you enjoy. (hey, what about political science or international commerce/economics, etc.?) If you are already fluent in the language (and able to write properly) then studying it, or majoring, minoring, is not necessary...just living there you will become fluent enough, anyways. but study something you enjoy, and concentrate on parts that can be used internationally.
4 :
Another thing you should think about is how will your American (I assume you are American) university title be useful in Spain. If you wish to work in a "controlled" profession, i.e. one which has a governing body such as Lawyer, Architect, Doctor etc. you will not be able to come to Spain and start working until you have had your title homologated by the Ministry of Education in Spain. This can be a long tedious process so its worth investigating each of your possible courses to see if there are any existing homologation agreements in place (I know they exist between some European countries and between Spain and some South American countries). Even if your chosen profession isn't governed by a public authority some employers may be reluctant to recognise a US title (this is even the case with titles obtained in other European countries so nothing specific against the American education system!). Do you have the possibility of starting your studies in the US and then finishing them in a Spanish university ? This would give you much more credibility when job hunting afterwards.
5 :
I had this same question when I was in high school! Currently I am a junior in college and I have many of the same interests as you! I am a Spanish major, with a minor in French and Communications, with a concentration in Public Relations. I think this is a very great path to take since it will allow you to not only learn more about your interests, but it also will prepare you for a career doing, well, whatever you want. I feel this is a great educational course to pursue as there are so many companies that are looking for people who not only speak multiple languages, but also if they are looking to go or already work internationally. Originally I was in education, but I had a change of heart and decided to change to communications. I love this career path and I feel that it will really prepare me for life after college. Also, a foreign language specific major is great because many colleges and universities require a student to study abroad in a country that speaks that language. Last year I studied in San Sebastian, Spain and absolutely loved it. Now I too want to move to Europe! Hope this information helps, it's just what I've chosen to do with my life, and gives you a little insight of different majors for people with similar interests as ours.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
If i pursue to work in spain, do i need to enroll spanish language to understand me in spain
If i pursue to work in spain, do i need to enroll spanish language to understand me in spain?
If im working to spain. do i need to learn spanish language, I know that english is universal language to make understand your communication. So people from spain dont know how to speak in english?
Languages - 8 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Unless you are working for an international company where English is preferred language choice, then yes, you should learn some Spanish. Even if you spoke English at work, you'd want to have a life outside work, shich would be difficult without some knowledge of the language.
2 :
If i was from spain and went to england would i need to know english? :P
3 :
yes you need a Spanish and French languages.
4 :
of course, but i'd brush up on your english first...
5 :
Unless you want to feel completely marginalized by your inability to read everyday signs, read a menu and order in a restaurant, Go shopping, ride public transit, do banking, post office,ask for directions,carry on a conversation, understand what your co-workers are telling you, or the conversation that is going on around you, then I think your best bet is to take a course in Spanish. Why would you do this to yourself? Being away from home is challenging enough without being able to communicate with those around you. I have lived in Switzerland and had to speak French every day to accomplish these simple tasks. If I had not had some ability, I would have stayed home and done nothing every day....Can't even watch TV! Take the course... Think of it as an opportunity!
6 :
It depends on where you work. If you work in a multi national corporation, I'm sure most of your co workers will speak English. If you work in a local bakery, maybe not. But wherever you go in the world, it helps to learn the another language. I've been learning Spanish for a few months now, and I've already found that my Peruvian friends are warming to me. It's not so difficult either. I've been learning basic survival language at http://www.survivalphrases.com/spanish, and they've been really useful.
7 :
Alot of people will understand you but do you want to understand them? You don't want only for people to understand you, and live deaf for the rest of your time there. You won't be able understand your Spanish collegues when they talk amongst themselves, you won't be able to understand the music etc. etc. Besides, Spanish is an easy language to learn.
8 :
Many people in Spain have a basic knowledge of English, but not many people speak t English fluently. If you want to work (and live) in Spain you NEED to speak Spanish. However people will lend you a hand when you are learning the language and you're not fluent enough in Spanish.
If im working to spain. do i need to learn spanish language, I know that english is universal language to make understand your communication. So people from spain dont know how to speak in english?
Languages - 8 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Unless you are working for an international company where English is preferred language choice, then yes, you should learn some Spanish. Even if you spoke English at work, you'd want to have a life outside work, shich would be difficult without some knowledge of the language.
2 :
If i was from spain and went to england would i need to know english? :P
3 :
yes you need a Spanish and French languages.
4 :
of course, but i'd brush up on your english first...
5 :
Unless you want to feel completely marginalized by your inability to read everyday signs, read a menu and order in a restaurant, Go shopping, ride public transit, do banking, post office,ask for directions,carry on a conversation, understand what your co-workers are telling you, or the conversation that is going on around you, then I think your best bet is to take a course in Spanish. Why would you do this to yourself? Being away from home is challenging enough without being able to communicate with those around you. I have lived in Switzerland and had to speak French every day to accomplish these simple tasks. If I had not had some ability, I would have stayed home and done nothing every day....Can't even watch TV! Take the course... Think of it as an opportunity!
6 :
It depends on where you work. If you work in a multi national corporation, I'm sure most of your co workers will speak English. If you work in a local bakery, maybe not. But wherever you go in the world, it helps to learn the another language. I've been learning Spanish for a few months now, and I've already found that my Peruvian friends are warming to me. It's not so difficult either. I've been learning basic survival language at http://www.survivalphrases.com/spanish, and they've been really useful.
7 :
Alot of people will understand you but do you want to understand them? You don't want only for people to understand you, and live deaf for the rest of your time there. You won't be able understand your Spanish collegues when they talk amongst themselves, you won't be able to understand the music etc. etc. Besides, Spanish is an easy language to learn.
8 :
Many people in Spain have a basic knowledge of English, but not many people speak t English fluently. If you want to work (and live) in Spain you NEED to speak Spanish. However people will lend you a hand when you are learning the language and you're not fluent enough in Spanish.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Will a Verizon prepaid phone work in Spain
Will a Verizon prepaid phone work in Spain?
I'm going to Spain in a couple months and I just wanted to know if I needed to get a different kind of phone or if my Verizon prepaid will work fine.
Cell Phones & Plans - 1 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Verizon phones are CDMA and will not work in Spain. Your best bet is to purchase a cheap unlocked quadband GSM phone before you go. When you get to Spain, purchase a local sim card which will give you cheap in country calls and inexpensive calls back to the States. All incoming calls are free Have fun
I'm going to Spain in a couple months and I just wanted to know if I needed to get a different kind of phone or if my Verizon prepaid will work fine.
Cell Phones & Plans - 1 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
Verizon phones are CDMA and will not work in Spain. Your best bet is to purchase a cheap unlocked quadband GSM phone before you go. When you get to Spain, purchase a local sim card which will give you cheap in country calls and inexpensive calls back to the States. All incoming calls are free Have fun
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
I have a debit card, will it work in spain
I have a debit card, will it work in spain?
I have a Debit card, it has the visa symbol in the bottem right corner, i live in wiconsin, will it work in spain? on the back in the bottem right and left it says pulse and plus.
Other - Spain - 6 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
If the ATM in spain is on one of the card's networks, yes. You will be subject to bank fees and your bank's exchange rate. I was able to use my atm card in Italy just fine. And the exchange rate was actually pretty good, but then, I have a credit union. Fees are more reasonable.
2 :
Absolutely! Spain, like all countries is Europe are ver advanced in commerce and trade, including ATM's. There is usually a fee of about the equivalent of $1.00-$1.50 for withdrawals. So my advise is to take out enough money that the charge is just a miner percentage of the total. You wouldn't want to pay $1.50 to withdraw $20, but you might want to pay $1.50 to withdraw $200. Going into a bank and using the ATM card to withdraw money is also a great way to meet real people. If they don't handle the cash right there, they will most likely walk you over to the ATM to help you through the process. You can punch a button so that all of the transaction is done in your primary language. One important hint: when the transaction is nearly over the screen will tell you to "remove your card" prior to dispensing the cash. I didn't have my glasses on that day and thought it was telling me to "withdraw my cash" instead of card. The ATM swollowed my ATM card and I spent three days getting my card back. Had a date with the lady at the bank who helped me get my card back, as they would only mail the card to an address, and then you had to go there to get it. You also get the very best exchange rate anywhere when you use the ATM machines or the actual people in the bank. Stick a couple of $100 bills in a hiding spot, just in case you lose your wallet or ATM card. It's no vacation to be in Europe with no access to your money.
3 :
i hate it when people write really long answers to a simple question!!! yes you can use your visa debit card in spain, But remember in spain if your paying by csrd,(debit or credit card) you must produce ID to confirm its your card. so you have to show the your passport or drivers license. :-) hope this helps
4 :
Not only does it work, it's the best way of obtaining funds.There are plenty of ATM machines throughout Spain, I suggest that you use the ones that are a part of the Spanish banks. I'm an American guy that has used my Visa debit card many times in Spain, it's well worth the nominal fee you'll be charged.
5 :
yes you can use your visa debit card in Spain - there is a option to change the language to English
6 :
Yes it will. I used my Australian debit card with a Visa symbol & plus symbol without any hassles. When I was there in 2001 (Christmas & NY - they were just introducing the Euro) and there was a limit of 500 Euros withdrawal per card, per day which made it a bit expensive in bank fee's. One word of warning though.. friends just returned from Barcelona & had issues with unauthorised transactions & thier card was placed on a watchlist by the bank until the bank could verify the transactions were legitimate. Also for extra safety look at having a second emergency card just incase you have problems. Good luck & happy safe travels :-))))
I have a Debit card, it has the visa symbol in the bottem right corner, i live in wiconsin, will it work in spain? on the back in the bottem right and left it says pulse and plus.
Other - Spain - 6 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
If the ATM in spain is on one of the card's networks, yes. You will be subject to bank fees and your bank's exchange rate. I was able to use my atm card in Italy just fine. And the exchange rate was actually pretty good, but then, I have a credit union. Fees are more reasonable.
2 :
Absolutely! Spain, like all countries is Europe are ver advanced in commerce and trade, including ATM's. There is usually a fee of about the equivalent of $1.00-$1.50 for withdrawals. So my advise is to take out enough money that the charge is just a miner percentage of the total. You wouldn't want to pay $1.50 to withdraw $20, but you might want to pay $1.50 to withdraw $200. Going into a bank and using the ATM card to withdraw money is also a great way to meet real people. If they don't handle the cash right there, they will most likely walk you over to the ATM to help you through the process. You can punch a button so that all of the transaction is done in your primary language. One important hint: when the transaction is nearly over the screen will tell you to "remove your card" prior to dispensing the cash. I didn't have my glasses on that day and thought it was telling me to "withdraw my cash" instead of card. The ATM swollowed my ATM card and I spent three days getting my card back. Had a date with the lady at the bank who helped me get my card back, as they would only mail the card to an address, and then you had to go there to get it. You also get the very best exchange rate anywhere when you use the ATM machines or the actual people in the bank. Stick a couple of $100 bills in a hiding spot, just in case you lose your wallet or ATM card. It's no vacation to be in Europe with no access to your money.
3 :
i hate it when people write really long answers to a simple question!!! yes you can use your visa debit card in spain, But remember in spain if your paying by csrd,(debit or credit card) you must produce ID to confirm its your card. so you have to show the your passport or drivers license. :-) hope this helps
4 :
Not only does it work, it's the best way of obtaining funds.There are plenty of ATM machines throughout Spain, I suggest that you use the ones that are a part of the Spanish banks. I'm an American guy that has used my Visa debit card many times in Spain, it's well worth the nominal fee you'll be charged.
5 :
yes you can use your visa debit card in Spain - there is a option to change the language to English
6 :
Yes it will. I used my Australian debit card with a Visa symbol & plus symbol without any hassles. When I was there in 2001 (Christmas & NY - they were just introducing the Euro) and there was a limit of 500 Euros withdrawal per card, per day which made it a bit expensive in bank fee's. One word of warning though.. friends just returned from Barcelona & had issues with unauthorised transactions & thier card was placed on a watchlist by the bank until the bank could verify the transactions were legitimate. Also for extra safety look at having a second emergency card just incase you have problems. Good luck & happy safe travels :-))))
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