Christine Marie Collins
B.A. in Spanish and International Business, May 2025
Interning & Studying Abroad in Santiago De Compostela, Spain
During Fall 2024, I had the opportunity to live, study, and intern in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. This experience helped me grow personally and professionally through hands-on learning in the travel industry and full immersion in a new culture.
Marketing and Tourism Internship at Viaxes Zonda
Fall 2024 – Santiago de Compostela, Spain
At Viaxes Zonda, a boutique travel agency specializing in Camino de Santiago pilgrimages and European itineraries, I worked as a marketing and logistics assistant. My role centered around curating personalized travel experiences for international clients. This internship deepened my understanding of the tourism industry and gave me confidence working in a cross-cultural, small business environment. I learned to manage real client needs while refining my organization, communication, and problem-solving skills in a dynamic setting.
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Key Responsibilities:
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Translated promotional brochures and itineraries from Spanish to English to attract international travelers
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Researched accommodations, transportation, and activities based on clients’ preferences and budgets
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Provided administrative support: responded to inquiries, organized client materials, and prepared travel documents
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Used tools like Google Flights, Booking.com, and Kayak to design cost-effective, tailored travel plans
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Skills Developed:
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Precision in multilingual communication and cultural adaptation
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Strong attention to detail and time management
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Real-world application of international marketing and hospitality concepts​
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Read More About My Internship Below:
Below are examples of promotional materials I created in both Spanish and English:
Studying at Universidad de Santiago de Compostela
Fall 2024 – C1 Level Spanish & Cultural Immersion
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As a student at the University of Santiago de Compostela, I completed a semester-long intensive Spanish language and culture program, including:
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20+ hours of weekly class time
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Contemporary Hispanic seminars
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Cultural excursions
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Highlights:
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Earned advanced-level (C1) Spanish proficiency
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Participated in regional travel and lectures
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Volunteered at the Red Cross, supporting hospitalized children
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Gained firsthand insight into Galician culture, communication, and lifestyle
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Reflection:
This immersive experience strengthened my language skills and cultural fluency. It also reinforced my passion for global business and inspired me to pursue a career that combines travel, marketing, and cross-cultural engagement.
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Read More About My Experience Below:

First day in Spain


My Host Family!
