Undergraduate Voices: Mia Branson on Studying Abroad at Berklee Valencia

Mia Branson

Program: First Year Abroad

Major: Music Business

Semester: 2nd

Semester Abroad: Spring 2025

"You have the beach, the history, the food—plus we’re studying in the amazing City of Arts and Sciences."

Mia Branson

What made you decide to study abroad at Berklee Valencia?

I knew studying abroad would be a great opportunity for me to explore the world, see new places, and really expand my horizons.

What does your course load look like?

Since I'm a First Year Abroad student, I have the chance to take the same core curriculum as I would in Boston, but I get the privilege of doing it here in Valencia.

It’s really interesting to have professors who are from here, or surrounding countries. In one of my favorite classes, Engaging with Valencia Culture and History, we got the chance to do a deep dive on the city and the history, and learn more about Valencia. 

What was your favorite aspect of the Berklee Valencia experience?

For me, it has to be the tight-knit community. Of course, the professors and classes are great, and the people I’ve met are like a family to me. We’re each other’s source of comfort, but we also need each other to push ourselves to go further. I think that’s something that I’ll keep in my heart forever, no matter where any of us end up. 

I also love the connections between the master’s students and the undergraduates. Seeing people who are further ahead, who are more experienced than I am, has given me role models, people to look up to and see what I might want to do in the future.

How have you grown since starting the Study Abroad program?

I’ve definitely grown in a lot of ways. It’s my first time living alone, so I’m cooking and cleaning for myself, becoming more independent. I’ve also found myself becoming more self-aware and making sure to take care of myself and focus on what’s really important, both academically and personally.

It was a bit daunting coming here as a First Year Abroad student, especially being surrounded by people who have so much more experience. So it was a challenge to truly feel like I deserved to be here, but I kept making sure to tell myself that I’m here for a reason, I was accepted for a reason, and that has helped me find my place here and feel like I belong. I know that’s something I’ll carry back to Boston.

What was life in Valencia like outside the classroom?

I’ve loved living in Valencia. You can find literally everything in the city. You have the beach, the history, the food—plus we’re studying in the amazing City of Arts and Sciences. There’s a touch of everything and I think that’s really special.

On top of that, you’re in Europe, so you're surrounded by a different music industry, which is really interesting. You have the ability to travel and see all these incredible places. Everything is just so accessible.

What would you say to someone who is considering studying abroad?

Do it! You’re not going to regret it. It’s such a unique opportunity, a unique experience, to be here at Berklee Valencia and it’s definitely not one to be taken for granted.