Lillie Heise, Global Health in Spain Summer 2025
What stood out most about my program in Málaga was how deeply I was able to connect with the city. I did not feel like a tourist, but more of a learner and participant of the culture. Málaga is a coastal city with an amazing blend of history, beauty, food, and everyday life that made me feel welcome. The mix of beaches, plazas, fresh local markets, quiet cafes, and the slower and more intentional pace of life made it a beautiful experience. It gave me time to really observe and reflect.
One thing I found especially interesting was the importance of rest and social time. The whole city slows down during siesta hours. Some shops close and people go home from work for lunch. Everyone in the culture really understands how rest is valuable. Also, they value family time making people take a break from work to enjoy a meal and a nap at home with their family. At first it was very different and surprising coming from a culture that encourages constant productivity and busyness. But it really taught me that taking time to rest and connect is not lazy, but it is healthy. It also was a very walkable city. People were walking everywhere, and the streets were full of children playing, street musicians, people sitting at cafes, and shopping. The city is not designed around cars like some U.S. cities, and I think that makes a big difference in how connected and active people are.
The global health program was very impactful because of its combination of classroom learning and real-world experiences. We did not just study the Spanish healthcare system, but we spoke with local healthcare professionals, explored their social services, and observed the system through people’s daily lives. It really helped me understand how culture, policy, and environment influence health and showed me how Spain emphasizes prevention and access.
Being in Málaga helped me slow down, reflect, and reconnect. It showed me that a city can support your wellbeing and not overwhelm you with busyness and chaos, which is something I’ll carry with me moving forward.
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