Where Language Meets Life: A Joyful Immersion in Spanish Culture

A boat tour of Barcelona’s bustling port, a guided visit to Antoni Gaudí’s breathtaking Sagrada Familia, and an excursion to the world-renowned Picasso Museum—these are just a few of the cultural moments Friends Seminary students enjoyed during the second year of the Barcelona Exchange Program. But even more memorable than the sights were the everyday joys: leisurely breakfasts in local cafés before class, spontaneous conversations in Spanish, and warm connections with their host families.

Launched last year by Kara Kutner, Director of the Center for Peace, Equity and Justice, the Exchange Program with Colegio Sant Ignasi (Saint Ignatius) in Barcelona continues to grow as a cornerstone of Friends Seminary’s global education offerings. In the fall, five students from Sant Ignasi joined our New York community, engaging in school life and forging friendships with their host students.

This spring, the exchange came full circle. Friends students—Amaa ‘26, Geneva ‘27, Mia ‘27, Raya ‘26, and Victoria ‘26—packed their bags and traded their classroom seats for a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience in Barcelona. Once immersed, Friends students embraced the challenge of Sant Ignasi’s rigorous academic program—all taught in Spanish. From ordering their meals with confidence at cafés to contributing in classroom discussions, they leaned into the experience with curiosity and courage. They reflected with pride on their efforts to engage in Spanish conversation, try new foods, and deepen their friendships.

Outside the classroom, the cultural immersion continued with a group outing to Mar i Cel, a beloved Catalán musical concluding its 50-year run, visits to several of the modernist architectural gems of Antoni Gaudí, learning first-hand about regional Catalán language and culture, and exploring the Gothic Quarter of this beautiful, historic city. Another essential component of this experience is the homestay. Through this experience, Friends students experience daily life in a Spanish family, and the strong bonds that they forge last long beyond their time in Spain.

“This exchange is an incredible opportunity to soak in the rich culture of Spain, strengthen language skills, and form meaningful global connections,” shared Kara Kutner. “I am thrilled by the way the Friends community has responded to this important initiative, putting language acquisition and the building of global citizenship at the forefront—particularly our intrepid Friends students.”

In today’s increasingly interconnected world, Friends Seminary is committed to fostering global competency through interdisciplinary programming grounded in open dialogue, deep connection, and cultural exchange. The success of this second year marks another step forward in preparing students to navigate—and help shape—our shared world with empathy, understanding, and a sense of adventure.