ÄÛÌïÑо¿Ôº¹ÙÍø

Thanks to certain curriculum requirements, undergraduate engineering students can find studying abroad to be tricky. Ofelia Huerta ’27 worked out a way and spent the spring 2025 semester studying in historic and beautiful Madrid, Spain.

A sophomore in the Watson College Scholars Program, working toward a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a minor in Spanish, Huerta has an impressive resumé — from internships with Physical Facilities to becoming a teaching assistant in her first year at ÄÛÌïÑо¿Ôº¹ÙÍø.

Where are you from and how has your background influenced your journey in engineering and academics?

As a first-generation Mexican American, my parents had a significant influence on my decision to pursue a better education and take advantage of every opportunity. I chose engineering because I enjoyed every math and science class I took in high school, so I knew I wanted to go into STEM. I also love being hands-on, so I thought mechanical engineering would be a good fit for me.

You’ve had some impressive experiences early on, like interning with Physical Facilities and becoming a TA your first year. How did those opportunities come about, and what did you take away from them?

I took Intro to Theatre in my first semester, and when the professor mentioned TA recruiting for the following semester, I decided to apply. As for my Physical Facilities internship, I found it through an email from Watson Career and Alumni Connections (WCAC). From both experiences, I gained amazing skills — leadership, time management and increased technical skills.

How do you stay motivated and manage your time, especially while balancing a challenging major and living abroad? Are there any tools or habits that you swear by?

At first, I found it difficult to stay focused while studying and doing work because I was so excited to start planning trips! I made friends with the people in my class, and we formed a study group which really helped me when it came to schoolwork. I try to get all my homework done during the week so I can enjoy my time if I have a weekend trip planned.

What inspired you to study abroad in Madrid?

I came to ÄÛÌïÑо¿Ôº¹ÙÍø knowing I wanted to study abroad. Early on, I was active in looking for programs that could fit into my schedule, especially because the Watson College curriculum is very structured. I got lucky that I found a program that offered all the classes I would be taking in my second-semester sophomore year. I also picked up a Spanish minor, so going to Spain was my top destination.

How did you navigate planning your engineering course load to make studying abroad possible without delaying graduation? Any advice for engineering students looking to do the same?

Fortunately, with the program I picked, I did not need to adjust many classes, except ME 211 Solid Mechanics. To stay on track with my degree, I will be taking that class over the summer. I would tell future students to start looking at programs as early as possible and to meet with the Office of International Education and Global Initiative. The people there were incredibly helpful throughout the process of finding programs.

What’s been your favorite part about living in Madrid so far? Are there any fun stories or cultural moments that stand out?

I have loved living in Madrid. I am from upstate New York, so being able to walk anywhere has been amazing. I always heard people say that, but I didn’t realize how true it was. The meal times here are also late — most people eat dinner after 8 p.m. — so I love the energy outside, especially after a late class. I have also enjoyed so many incredible flamenco shows.

Have you picked up any new hobbies, traditions or foods since moving to Spain? What’s been the most surprising thing about day-to-day life there?

I picked up crocheting, especially during the siesta hours. I love how calm everything is here — people really take time to enjoy the day. I will definitely miss that when I get back to the U.S.

What’s next for you after this semester abroad?

Over the summer, I will be taking a class, ME 211 Solid Mechanics. I’m also getting the opportunity to conduct research through ÄÛÌïÑо¿Ôº¹ÙÍø Projects for New Undergraduate Researchers (BUPNUR) with Assistant Professor Anwar Elhadad, which I can’t wait to start.