Daenna Gonzalez
Daenna Gonzalez (she/her) - Stanford in Madrid
Majors: Mgmt Sci & Engineering (BS)
College year while abroad: Spring 2025-26
About the photo: Featuring my trusty Mary Poppins bag, which somehow made it into every photo abroad.
Contact
Email: daennag@stanford.edu
Q&As
Why did you choose to study in Madrid?
I chose to study in Madrid because it felt like a once in a lifetime opportunity to step outside my comfort zone and fully immerse myself in a different culture. I believe some of the most meaningful growth comes from making bold decisions without knowing exactly where they'll lead. As a native Spanish speaker, I was also excited by the chance to live entirely in Spanish, not just in class, but with my host family, friends, and coworkers. Madrid offered the perfect blend of cultural immersion, language, and professional experience.
How did studying away support your academic growth?
Studying away reminded me that academic growth is not limited to the classes required for your major. It gave me the opportunity to explore subjects I never imagined could count toward my degree, from Flamenco to an internship that immersed me in a completely different professional environment. While these experiences were not directly related to my technical major, they challenged me in new ways and broadened how I think about learning. Studying away showed me that some of the most meaningful lessons come from exploring disciplines and experiences beyond your own.
What did you learn about yourself during your study away experience, especially through any challenges or major cultural adjustments?
Studying abroad taught me to slow down and appreciate the parts of life that are easy to overlook. Living in a different culture showed me the value of spending unhurried time with family and friends, being present, and finding joy in everyday moments. It also challenged me to embrace uncertainty and become comfortable with things not always feeling familiar. Looking back, I realized that growth is not only measured by academic or professional achievements, but also by the perspective you gain when you step away from what is comfortable and allow yourself to fully experience a new way of life.
Briefly describe a typical day and your favorite part of daily life in your program location.
A typical day started with classes at el Instituto, followed by lunch with friends or my host family before spending the afternoon exploring Madrid. My favorite part of daily life, though, was coming home each evening to my host family. Sharing meals, hearing about each other's days, and experiencing everyday life together became the highlight of my time abroad. Their kindness and support made Madrid feel like home, and they turned what could have been a temporary stay into an experience I will always carry with me.
If applicable, how did participating in an internship, volunteership or experiential-based project help you grow professionally? What specific skills did you gain?
Working directly with the CEO gave me a perspective that is hard to find in a traditional internship. I supported the business and investment side of the company, contributing to market research, investor materials, and strategic projects that helped shape important decisions. Although this was not my first startup experience, it reaffirmed why I love entrepreneurial environments. Taking on that responsibility entirely in Spanish made the experience even more rewarding. I also loved working in EdTech. As someone who genuinely values education, it was inspiring to work with a company that uses technology to help students learn in more engaging and personalized ways and to make high quality educational resources more accessible.
What was the most essential item you took with you on the program?
My Canon G7X and my Longchamp tote. My Longchamp quickly earned the nickname "Mary Poppins bag" because it somehow fit everything I needed for long days of classes, my internship, and exploring Madrid. My camera, though, became one of my favorite things I packed. It encouraged me to capture everyday moments that would have otherwise been forgotten, and those are the memories I find myself revisiting the most.
What advice would you give students who are considering studying away?
If you're considering studying away, do it. It's an experience you'll carry with you long after the program ends. My biggest piece of advice is to make an informed decision based on what you truly want, not what everyone else is doing. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement or other people's opinions, but choosing a program that aligns with your own goals will shape your experience in the best way. Once you're there, say yes to new opportunities and make the most of every moment.