At some point, we’ve all dreamed of packing our bags, hopping on a plane and immersing ourselves in a completely different world. It sounds exciting, but beyond the allure of adventure, there’s something deeper—something that transforms you. Enter the exchange semester: an experience that doesn’t just change your location, but changes you.
For Marcelo Moreno, a 23-year-old Bachelor in Data & Business Analytics student from El Salvador, this opportunity was a journey of self-discovery, academic growth and pushing past comfort zones. Let’s dive into how his exchange semester at Aalto University in Finland reshaped his perspective.
A Conversation with Marcelo Moreno
Why did you choose to participate in IE University’s international exchange program?
“I wanted to explore new places, experience different cultures, and meet people from all over the world. But beyond that, it felt like an adventure I couldn’t pass up. When else would I have the chance to pick a country, move there, and see what happens?”
Originally, Marcelo had his sights set on Australia, but logistical challenges made it difficult. Instead, he pivoted to Finland—a place he saw as completely different from Spain.
How did IE University help you align a semester in Finland with your goals for the future?
Taking a semester abroad can be daunting, but IE University made the transition seamless.
“The application process was really straightforward, and the university made sure I took courses relevant to my degree. That was huge because not only was I exploring a new country, but I was also gaining academic value from it. I took courses that I know will help me in the future—whether for a job or a master’s program.”.
What is the most valuable thing you learned during your semester in Finland, whether academically, culturally or personally?
Spending time in a foreign country teaches you more than just academics. For Marcelo, the biggest takeaway was learning to embrace independence.
“You can’t just wait for things to happen—you have to go out and make them happen, even if it means doing it alone. I traveled a lot during my exchange, but I didn’t always have people to go with. A lot of times, I went solo or joined Erasmus trips with complete strangers. It turned out to be one of the best parts of my experience.”
From exploring Tromsø and Lofoten in Norway to experiencing the winter wonderland of Finnish Lapland, studying abroad gave him opportunities he never would have had otherwise.
What did you miss most about IE University while on exchange?
While Finland offered incredible experiences, Marcelo still missed some aspects of IE University.
“Without a doubt, my friends. Many of them were also on exchange, so we were all scattered around the world. I also missed the facilities, especially the IE Sports Center—I love swimming, so not having that was tough. And academically, I missed the small, personalized classes where professors actually know your name.”
What’s your advice for future exchange students?
If If you’re on the fence about studying abroad, Marcelo has one piece of advice: just go for it.
“An opportunity like this doesn’t come around often. Of course, it won’t be perfect—you’ll have moments of homesickness, and it can be hard to form strong connections at first. But the experience is 100% worth it. You’ll grow in ways you never expected.”
He also suggests staying in touch with loved ones and, if possible, convincing a friend to join you.
“Going with a friend would have made a big difference for me. It’s not a necessity, but it definitely helps to have a familiar face around.”
Marcelo’s exchange semester in Finland wasn’t just about academics or travel—it was about pushing past comfort zones, gaining independence and seeing the world from a new perspective. For students considering studying abroad, his story is proof that sometimes, the best experiences come from taking a leap into the unknown.
Dreaming of studying abroad? Look into our exchange opportunities for Business School students.