A major highlight from Anna Willerer’s experience studying abroad in Valencia, Spain, with the College of Communication and Information (CCI) this past spring was her internship with 24/7 Valencia.
For two months, the communication studies major worked as an assistant editorial journalist at the local English language news magazine. Willerer’s responsibilities included writing engaging stories about different social and cultural events, reworking press releases to align with the 24/7 Valencia brand voice, managing the magazine’s Instagram page, and tracking performance metrics to improve engagement on the platform.
“Living and studying abroad for three months in Valencia was truly one of the most incredible and unique experiences of my life,” Willerer said. “I learned so much about not only myself as a person, but also local and international culture, and I will be able to apply that throughout my professional career and personal life.”
Immersing students in Valencian culture while studying in Spain and providing students real-world experience in the industry through partnerships with local businesses are two goals of the CCI Global Communication Scholars Semester Study Abroad Program.
Launched in 2022, CCI works with the sponsor school Catholic University of Valencia San Vicente Mártir and WorldStrides International Studies Abroad (WorldStrides ISA) to provide this immersive experience for students.
“The Spain study abroad program is more than just an academic experience. It’s a life-changing journey,” said Mustafa Oz, journalism and media professor and faculty advisor for the program. “Students not only earn credits and complete internships, but they also immerse themselves in a new culture, grow personally and professionally, and return with skills and memories that will last a lifetime.”
Applications Open for 2026 Semester
Applications for the CCI Global Communication Scholars Semester in Valencia, Spain for spring 2026 are now open.
The priority deadline to apply is Monday, September 15, 2026.
“My time in Valencia was amazing. I met so many great people from around the world and I had great opportunities to travel around Europe,” Aidan Palmore, public relations major and 2025 participant said. “Dr. Oz is a great professor who cares about his students deeply, and this program will allow you to grow in so many different ways in your life. My advice for anyone interested in this program would be to apply and see where it will lead you.”
The program is split into two parts over the course of three months. During the first part of the semester, students take two courses from their UT faculty leader and a local professor from the Catholic University of Valencia. After completing their coursework, students will have a one-week travel break before concluding the semester with a personalized internship experience with a local business.
Interested students are encouraged to contact Oz at [email protected] and visit the Vols Abroad Portal for more information.