My name is Emily and I am a junior at the University of South Carolina. This past semester, I had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in Barcelona, Spain. As a physical therapy major, I knew I wanted to make the most of my time by combining cultural immersion with professional development. That’s why I chose to complete some of my observation hours at Eurosport Rehabilitation Center, a well-respected clinic with over 30 years of experience in physical and sports rehabilitation. 

From day one, the staff at Eurosport welcomed me with open arms. I was able to shadow a licensed physical therapist who walked me through treatment plans, patient evaluations, and rehabilitation techniques. I observed sessions with athletes recovering from injuries, elderly patients working on mobility, and everything in between. 

Although my role was mainly observational, I had the chance to assist with small tasks like setting up equipment and following patients’ progress throughout their sessions. Despite the language barrier, I was surprised by how much I could understand through nonverbal cues like body language, tone of voice, and the dynamic between the therapist and patient. It really highlighted how universal the values of care, encouragement, and healing are, no matter where you are in the world. 

I found this opportunity through SAI’s Enhancement Program, which is designed to promote learning beyond the classroom and encourage personal growth through real-world experiences. If you’re a med, physical therapy, or nursing student, I highly recommend reaching out to see what’s possible! 

This experience taught me so much—not only about physical therapy but also about communication and adaptability. I’m incredibly grateful to have had the opportunity to gain a more global perspective on the field and for the chance to grow both personally and professionally while living in Barcelona!

Written by: Emily, Spring 2025 Barcelona student from University of South Carolina