As I prepare for my year abroad at ECIS University in Madrid, I carry more than just excitement—I carry a commitment to making my time in Spain as sustainable as possible. Studying internationally is a rare opportunity, and I want to ensure that my global experience doesn’t come at the planet’s expense.
From the start, I’ve planned my travel with the environment in mind. Instead of flying directly, I intend to take the train across Europe where feasible, reducing my carbon footprint while embracing slower, more conscious travel. The journey itself will be part of the experience—a chance to see landscapes, not just airports.
Once in Madrid, I plan to immerse myself in local life with sustainable habits at the core. I’ll live in shared accommodation to minimize energy consumption and rely on Madrid’s excellent public transportation system. The metro, buses, and bike-sharing programmes will be my main modes of travel—efficient, electric, and emission-friendly.
My goal is to align closely with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly:
SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities): by participating in community-led eco-initiatives, such as clean-up events or local environmental workshops.
SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production): by shopping second-hand, avoiding fast fashion, and using refill stores for essentials.
SDG 13 (Climate Action): through daily actions like reducing waste, conserving energy, and choosing low-carbon foods.
I also aim to start a blog or Instagram account dedicated to eco-friendly student life abroad—sharing practical tips, sustainable swaps, and reflections in both English and Spanish. This will help connect with other international students and promote SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by fostering a digital community focused on low-impact living.
I’m aware sustainability won’t always be the easiest choice. Cheap flights and fast fashion are tempting, especially on a student budget. But I believe intentional living—walking more, wasting less, buying better—can lead to a more meaningful experience. Sustainability isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about consistent, thoughtful ones.
This placement isn’t just about academic growth—it’s a chance to live out my values in a new context. I want to return home not only with new knowledge, but with a stronger sense of global responsibility. By making conscious choices abroad, I hope to be part of a growing movement of students proving that international education and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
Madrid will be my classroom, but the Earth is the lesson I’m most eager to study—and protect.
