The young British Orla Thornley, in this interview, talks about her experience in Spain (this is the first time she has lived outside the UK). She also explains how she has been learning at Delonia, where she works as an intern.
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
“My name is Orla Thornley and, as my first name indicates, as well as being English, I am half Irish. I was born in London and soon after moved to the beautiful city of Bath, where I still live. Until now I have always studied in England, this is the first time I have lived outside the U.K. This is very different from a summer vacation! In my spare time I like to go for long walks, read and practice reeler, a Scottish dance. In terms of sports, I play tennis as much as I can and I love skiing.”
What did you study in the UK?
“I study at the University of Exeter in the UK, where I study ‘Politics and Spanish’. I really enjoy learning about politics. In high school I studied a bit of Spanish and wanted to continue. I am currently in my ‘year abroad’ and here I am!”
Cosmopolitan life
Why did you choose Spain?
“At university we are encouraged to practice Spanish in real life. I had the opportunity to study abroad and it was clear to me that I wanted to go to Spain. Choosing Madrid was very easy, I wanted to go to a big city with a lot of atmosphere and life. I have been asked why I didn’t choose another country where Spanish was spoken, but for me Spain was the logical choice. Besides, it is close to England so I can go to my university or visit my family.”
What do you miss most about your country and what do you like most about Spain?
“I definitely miss my university. While doing a year abroad has been a thrilling experience and I’m having the best time of my life, it’s been bittersweet to leave behind my friends who have gone straight into their final year. But I’ve still returned to visit and also made some great friends here in Madrid! I think what I love most about Spain – besides Spanish omelette or ‘tortilla de patatas’ – is how much there is to see and do. This is my first time living in such a big city, and I can safely say I am never bored. From beautiful art, parks, restaurants, nightlife, culture and weather!! Even though it may seem freezing to Spaniards, 13 degrees in winter is significantly warmer than the UK!”
How is your Spanish?
“I’ve been studying Spanish all through school, and I’ve continued it into university where I now study it at advanced level. That being said, I’m certainly not advanced. I would more describe myself as intermediate, though I’m often encouraged to say upper intermediate! It’s a beautiful language and I love learning it. Living here in Madrid, it’s been interesting to pick up on new colloquial phrases that I’d never pick up in a classroom.”
How did you become an intern at Delonia?
“I had an interview call set up with Jose María Corsino and at first, I wasn’t sure what to expect from the company name because I’m not a software or ‘techy’ person. But I really enjoyed my call with him, and he explained the variety of tasks I could be involved in. Then I realised there were so many ways I could contribute, and after that call I immediately knew I wanted to work here. Since joining, I’ve worked on a range of projects, particularly based around our insurance clients. For example, a significant part of my work has been dedicated to in-depth research and analysis of regulatory changes, policy developments and economic shifts in the UK, examining their impact on the device insurance industry and the strategies needed to navigate them. And right now, I’m working on benchmarking, looking at innovations in similar industries worldwide and how we can draw inspiration. It’s been a dynamic and engaging experience that has kept me constantly learning.”
What has the experience of working at Delonia been like?
“I’ve had such a great experience working with Delonia. It has given me a real taste of professional life in an environment that has been both challenging and supportive. I’ve been able to really develop my skills, gain insight into the working world and learn something new every day. My supervisor, Miguel Silverio, has been a fantastic mentor and his guidance has really helped me grow in my role. This experience has been exactly what I needed before stepping into the professional world upon completing my degree.”
What are the biggest differences between the UK and Spain?
“The biggest difference? Spain is much more relaxed! In the UK, schedules tend to be stricter and classic British politeness is a constant in any situation. Spaniards are noticeably a lot more direct and also laid-back in their daily life. It initially felt rather unfamiliar, but I’ve learnt to adapt to a more spontaneous rhythm.”
Job, master’s degree or travels
What are your plans for the future?
“For now, it’s all up in the air! I return for my final year of university in September and then I graduate in June 2026. I have various things I’m thinking of doing, perhaps jumping straight into a graduate job, maybe pursuing a master’s degree in something like policy or possibly some travelling. I shall see what opportunities come my way!”.
Would you like to tell us about your experiences living in Spain?
“I’ve just loved being fully immersed in a new country, language, and culture – especially after studying it for so long. It’s been very educational and eye-opening and filled with memories I’ll remember forever.”
What do you like most and least about Madrid?
“What I love most? The endless things to do! I just adore the city so much and I really enjoy my routine of life here. I have all my favourite spots to walk, read, eat, shop and just soak up the atmosphere. Even when I do the ‘touristy’ things, it still feels exciting, like I’m on an extended holiday.”
“The biggest challenge? Madrid’s late-night culture! Coming from England, where the nights tend to end much earlier, it has certainly been a huge adjustment. Here it seems that the Madrileños never sleep! That being said, I’ve definitely embraced the late nights, but I hope I won’t struggle to readjust when returning to the UK’s much earlier hours!”
