My name is Marko, and I spent the winter semester 2025/26 in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. I study Primary School Education and completed an exchange semester at the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC). The campus where I studied was located very centrally in the city, which was especially convenient, as many other students attended courses in Tafira, which is further away and requires longer bus rides.

The University

ULPGC is a large university with two campuses spread across the city. The organization of the exchange program worked well and I felt well supported from the very beginning. Through daily interaction with local students, I was able to improve my Spanish skills and I attended courses taught in both English and Spanish. After arriving, I had to make some changes to my course selection, which took a bit of time, but everything worked out in the end. The course structure was clear and communication with the professors was uncomplicated.

Accomodation

I lived in a shared apartment with local residents near the university. This living arrangement provided me with an authentic insight into everyday life on the island and offered many opportunities to practice my Spanish, which greatly supported my integration. I searched for my room after arriving in Gran Canaria and would recommend others not to stress too much about finding accommodation. In many cases, it is easier and more flexible to look for housing on site before you arrive.

If you receive a rental contract for an indefinite period or for at least six months, you can apply for residency status. This allows you to receive a 75% discount on domestic flights and reduced prices for many leisure activities, which is especially beneficial if you plan to explore other Canary Islands or travel within Spain.

The City

Gran Canaria is a lively student destination with a wide range of cultural and social activities. Public transportation on the island is very reliable, making it easy to travel by bus from the more touristic southern areas to the city center and other parts of the island. The combination of university life, urban culture, nature, and the sea made my stay particularly enjoyable. The weather is another major advantage: while the north is often slightly cloudier, the south enjoys sunshine almost every day.

Personal Experience and Conclusion

Academically, I benefited from new teaching and learning methods, while culturally and socially I gained valuable international experiences and made meaningful connections. On a personal level, I became more independent, open-minded, and confident. I am convinced that the skills and experiences I gained during this semester abroad will have a positive impact on my future work as a teacher.

Photos & Text: Marko Stavric