Dylan Khangsar
Dylan Khangsar (he/him) - Stanford in Madrid
Major: Mathematics (BS)
College year while abroad: Winter 2025-26
About the photo: Here's me hiking the Parque Rural de Anaga in Tenerife!
Contact
Email: dylankh@stanford.edu
Q&As
Why did you choose to study in Madrid?
I decided to study in Madrid for language immersion and the opportunity to explore and live in a new country. I have never lived outside of the U.S. nor traveled outside of North America. Studying abroad was something I hadn’t really considered until getting to Stanford, but I’m so glad I did! I chose Madrid because I was interested in the language pledge, and I have always wanted to experience living in a Spanish-speaking country. For anyone who wants to drastically improve their Spanish in 10 weeks, go to Madrid!
How did studying away support your academic growth?
Studying abroad was a great way to try new subjects and styles of classes. As a STEM major, I rarely get the chance to take smaller, more intimate classes. Madrid’s courses include interesting subjects like art history and dance. Getting to try new class subjects– as well as classes taught in Spanish– has enriched my overall college experience.
What did you learn about yourself during your study away experience, especially through any challenges or major cultural adjustments?
I feel like I have a better grasp of the values and lifestyles of Madrileños, which also gave me a new perspective on my American upbringing. As someone from Texas, living in Madrid for 10 weeks was a big departure from my life here in America, but it allowed me to grow and experience a different way of life. The homestay experience gave me the chance to immerse myself in authentic Spanish life, values, and culture, and daily life in Madrid.
Briefly describe a typical day and your favorite part of daily life in your program location.
Wake up, go to class, test a new coffee shop for my beli, go to Mercadona and get a huge loaf of bread, eat it in 30 minutes, explore a bit of the city, do my homework, eat dinner with my host mom and roommate, and then sleep!
If applicable, how did participating in an internship, volunteership or experiential-based project help you grow professionally? What specific skills did you gain?
I did not do an internship.
What was the most essential item you took with you on the program?
Travel adapter!
What advice would you give students who are considering studying away?
Reach out to someone who studied in Madrid (reach out to me!!).