Students who participate in long-form study abroad programs can be fully immersed in a new culture for an extended period while furthering their education and personal skills. That’s what happened to Denis Zotaj, a senior studying Spanish and computer and information sciences who went abroad with the WorldStrides: Semester at Universidad de Granada program in Granada, Spain this past spring.
“Going abroad gave me a fresh start and the chance to step away from familiar routines. As a first-generation Albanian student, I’ve always seen education as a way to open doors and studying abroad was something I knew I had to experience,” said Zotaj. “Immersion truly leads to genuine understanding, and by learning a language through real, authentic connections, I gained a much deeper appreciation for the culture. The main lesson I learned is that growth comes from embracing uncertainty and discomfort. Studying abroad required that I face challenges head-on, which made me more resilient.”
Zotaj’s program at the Universidad de Granada focused on advanced language immersion and cultural exploration, which he thought aligned perfectly with his academic and personal goals. Living and learning in Granada for the semester gives students the chance to connect with the community and improve their Spanish.
While not in the classroom, Zotaj found time to explore the surrounding countries, creating even more unforgettable memories.
“I visited 14 countries and 68 cities, learning new lessons at each stop. Getting lost on the Prague metros, being invited onto a yacht in Ibiza, sleeping on the Sahara Desert floor, and being without Wi-Fi in Madrid airport created unforgettable experiences,” he said. “The unpredictable moments taught me the most, and what truly made it special was building meaningful friendships. These experiences I got to share built bonds and turned all of the challenges we went through into stories.”
Out of all the destinations that he visited, Zotaj contended that Morocco was his favorite.
“From nearly missing my flight to sleeping under the stars in the Sahara, every moment was unforgettable. Driving through the desert with music blasting, trying new foods and meeting hundreds of people made even the most remote places feel alive with energy and connection. I explored the narrow streets of the medinas in Fes, where every turn revealed stunning architecture and craftsmanship unlike anything I’d ever seen.”
Zotaj hopes that other Buckeyes looking for a similar experience can embrace the same spontaneity that he did during his time abroad, and come back with a new attitude and appreciation for life.
“You’ll never be fully prepared, and that’s part of the magic. Bring a good mindset as it guides your choices, helps you stay open when things go wrong, and pushes you to say yes to new opportunities. Whether joining last-minute trips or trying unfamiliar food, your mindset shapes your growth. Embrace the unfamiliar, ask questions, and get lost. Often, the best stories begin there.”
Coming back to campus this semester, Zotaj will take the lessons he learned abroad and apply them to his major and eventually his goal for a future career in cybersecurity.
“Navigating unfamiliar environments forced me to adapt quickly, think creatively, and build trust with people from all backgrounds, all skills that are invaluable in cybersecurity. When I approach cybersecurity, I do so with a global mindset and a deeper understanding of how culture influences risk and resilience. This experience has fundamentally changed how I approach problem-solving, leading teams, and collaborating.”