Academic Year Abroad Madrid at the Universidad Carlos III, the Universidad Complutense, & the Universidad Autónoma

AYA Madrid Directora, Gayle Witzig, was a Spanish literature major at Binghamton University and a graduate student in advertising and public relations at the European University of Antwerp. She has served as graphic designer for the American Women’s Club of Madrid and has taught at the New Marshall Academy in Madrid. She is also involved in an afterschool study program where she teaches English to elementary school children. She has lived in Spain for 18 years.

The role of the Director is to guide AYA students through the maze of study possibilities and see to the organizing of tutorials and the transmission of grades. She maintains contacts with the professors and helps with housing, orientation, and cultural activities. Gayle also hosts the annual Thanksgiving Dinner and the Paella de Primavera at her home. AYA students come to regard the Director as teacher, adviser, and friend, their most important link during their period of study in Madrid to the city and the universities.