Wisconsin International Scholar Corinne Kelling (’26) is from Minnetonka, MN, and is pursuing majors in Biology and Spanish and Certificates in Biocore and Leadership at UW. Corinne is passionate about health policy and advocacy and has made a significant investment in developing her Spanish language skills both in and out of the classroom. Corinne spent the Spring 2025 semester studying at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid.
Q: What motivated you to choose your particular study abroad program(s), and what are some of the most significant academic or personal lessons you have learned on your journey to becoming a global citizen?
A: Having been part of a Spanish immersion program since kindergarten and continuously learning about the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Spanish-speaking countries, I knew that studying abroad would be an essential part of my journey when I arrived at UW. My decision was solidified during a study abroad poster session hosted by WIScholars in the spring of my freshman year, where I met a peer who had participated in the WIP Madrid program. Their compelling account of their time in Madrid—living with a wonderful host family, forming lasting friendships at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, and improving their Spanish language skills—left me inspired to apply for this program. Being in Madrid has proven to be one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Through my studies, I have made large strides in improving my Spanish language skills, adapting to diverse teaching styles, and incorporating a much more global perspective to my studies at UW.
Q: Can you share a specific experience or interaction from your time at WISc or abroad that highlighted the value of cross-cultural understanding or personal growth?
A: One of my most memorable experiences happened at an orientation for NadieSolo, an organization dedicated to providing volunteer opportunities to help people who may be lonely or sick. During the session, I struck up a conversation with a woman named Maria who was seated next to me. After a while, although I was fluent, she noticed that I was not a native Spanish speaker and asked where I was from. I explained that I was from the U.S., and she shared that, despite living with English speakers, her own fluency was not as strong as she desired. This led to us practicing English together. The following week, I attended another orientation focused on volunteering in hospitals, where I was pleasantly surprised to find Maria again. Our conversation resumed and became a mix of her teaching me Spanish words related to hospitals, and me practicing English with her. From that point on, whenever our paths crossed, we would continue our informal language exchange. These interactions not only improved my language skills but also gave me a deeper understanding of the challenges many people face when trying to learn a new language. Maria’s eagerness to learn English showed me the power of mutual exchange in fostering cross-cultural understanding, and it turned into a meaningful friendship that I’ll always remember.
Q: What advice would you give to current WIScholars who are considering studying abroad?
A: My biggest piece of advice is to go abroad at least once in your undergrad experience! Once you arrive in a new country, I encourage you to embrace the uncertainty, be open to new perspectives, and truly immerse yourself in the culture. One of the best parts of studying abroad is the ability to temporarily live in a country, making you less of a tourist, and more someone who is from the U.S. and lives there. This provides the unique opportunity to engage with so many people from different backgrounds, deeply immerse yourself in the culture, and learn from everything around you. By embracing uncertainty and opening yourself to new perspectives, you will be able to escape your comfort zone and see everything there is to offer more clearly. Studying abroad will shape you in ways you can’t fully predict, but the growth you experience will stay with you long after you return.
Q: How has your study abroad experience influenced your academic, professional, or personal goals for the coming year?
A: Studying abroad has altered the way I view my life trajectory in many ways. One thing that was built into my academic journey was the Spanish language. Being in an immersion program all my academic life is what led to me pursuing a Spanish major. It was built in as a part of my life, but I was never one hundred percent sure why it was a passion of mine. When I got to Spain, my ability to speak Spanish is what allowed me to build relationships with classmates at school, learn from locals, and navigate the city. It became abundantly clear very quickly that I am pursuing this major to be able to expand my horizons to the people that I can serve and build relationships with. That being said, my professional goals remain the same, to become a physician and use my medical abilities to help those in need; however, this experience has inspired me to continue to advocate and stand behind those who aren’t able to themselves. That is, breaking down cultural and language barriers that are highly prevalent in healthcare, and using my language skills and empathy for others to cultivate a healthcare system inclusive to all. While that goal is far out, in the near future, I hope to begin to volunteer as a translator in clinical settings and seek to learn more about health policy and advocacy.