Today we had the pleasure to sit down with Abdessamad, the winner of the VDSN Scholarship to experience how is it to study in Euroace, and Spanish teacher in the Netherlands. He came to us through Spanish Language Connections, an educational agency based in the Netherlands that specializes in connecting individuals with accredited Spanish language schools.
Abdessamad, tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from and what do you do?
I’m Abdessamad Elghoul, I’m 30 years old and I’m from the Netherlands. I work there as a Spanish teacher and I’m also doing a master’s degree. I love traveling, playing sports—especially Brazilian jiu-jitsu, calisthenics, and running in the park—and I really enjoy food, especially Moroccan cuisine.
How did you find out about Euroace?
I won a lottery organized by an association for Spanish teachers in my country, called Spanish Language Connections. The prize was a one-week Spanish course at Euroace, in Valencia. I took this opportunity to improve my C1 level and refresh my knowledge. It was also my first time visiting the city.
Had you been to Spain before?
Yes, I’ve been to Mallorca, Barcelona, Madrid, Salamanca, Bilbao, San Sebastián and several cities in Andalusia, but never to Valencia.
With such an advanced level of Spanish, what motivated you to keep studying the language?
Well, I’ve noticed that when I’m in the Netherlands I don’t speak Spanish much—just with my colleagues, who are also teachers, but hardly ever outside of work. That really bothers me because I want to improve my Spanish, and at the same time, I’m a Spanish teacher. My students often ask about new and high-level vocabulary, and I need to stay up to date to be able to answer them properly. I’m also doing a master’s, so I write academic texts in Spanish—keeping a high level is essential.
From your perspective as a teacher, what has the course at Euroace offered you?
I really liked the teaching methodology. The teacher, Ana, is very creative in how she teaches Spanish, especially grammar and vocabulary. She also introduces new words that are useful in different contexts. I enjoy all the classes—especially the activities, the interaction, and the learning process. They’re not monotonous. All the students are actively involved and the teacher is very engaged.
Is there a specific class that you liked more than the others?
Actually, I’ve liked all the classes. Mainly because of the activities, interaction, and learning. They’re never monotonous. Everyone participates and the teacher is very involved.
And how’s your relationship with the other international students?
Very good.
Do you remember your first impressions when arriving at Euroace?
Pretty good, yes. It’s my second language course in Spain—the first was in Madrid in 2018.
Have you explored the city during your stay?
Yes, I’ve loved Valencia. The people are very kind. I also really liked the weather and the overall atmosphere. I visited the City of Arts and Sciences and the beach. My favorite part of the city was the old town. I also made the most of every chance to practice Spanish with locals in shops and restaurants.
To finish, if you had to describe your experience in Valencia and at Euroace with just one word each, what would they be?
Valencia: “Pleasant atmosphere.”
Euroace: “Creativity.”
Do you want to learn Spanish in Spain, have an international internship or take a Gap Year?
At Euroace we offer so much more than just Spanish classes. We welcome students from all over the world every day. Our students are here to learn Spanish, intern at companies in Valencia, Barcelona and Madrid, as well as to take a break from life and immerse themselves in Spanish culture as they develop themselves professionally and personally.
We offer aid with visas, if you are looking to study the Spanish baccalaureate (bachillerato), want to take official exams, want to take part in soccer programs,… and so many more things. We invite you to visit our website to see all we have to offer in regards Spanish language learning.
