Being a committed member of a team doesn't prevent Muhlenberg athletes from enjoying the same transformative experiences that their fellow students do - like studying abroad. Every semester, a good number of Mules travel overseas, and we catch up with them in our Postcards from Abroad series.  Our latest "foreign correspondent" is cross country/track & field junior Matthew Hajel, a mathematics major and economics minor who is studying in Madrid, Spain. Here's what he had to say about his experience:

What made you decide to study abroad?
I am really big into geography and really wanted to explore someplace in the world. I had teammates in the past go abroad and they really enjoyed it, so it encouraged me to want to go as well. 

What has been your favorite part about studying abroad?
Definitely traveling. I love going somewhere I haven't been before and learning about their culture and history. 

What is something you have learned about yourself while studying abroad?
Studying abroad has made me have to do things on my own, and not rely on my parents. It has made me become more independent because of it.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying abroad?
If you are on the fence about going abroad, just do it. The worst feeling would be deciding to not go and regretting it.

What is your favorite class?
My favorite class is my art history class because I love learning about art in cultures around the world. I even visited some of the artworks that we discussed in class while traveling, which is really cool. 

What has been the favorite place you've visited?
Definitely Morocco. It was such a unique experience for me.

How have you kept up with your sport while abroad?
Since I run cross country and track & field, it has been really easy for me to keep up with my sport. I aim to hit a certain mileage each week, and Madrid has plenty of parks and trails to run in, which has made it easier. Also, I am in a track club that I go to twice a week and co-lead a small running club group at SLU Madrid. 

What is one thing you miss about Muhlenberg?
Definitely hanging out with my teammates. While I made plenty of friends here, I look forward to running with them again. 

Previous "Postcards"
Rebecca McCurdy (women's lacrosse) - Florence
Caitlin Bestrycki (women's tennis) - Limerick, Ireland