Malayali polyglot sisters fly to Europe's 800-year-old Salamanca university for PhD

When most people think of studying abroad, they imagine going solo, making new friends, and adjusting to a new culture on their own. But for Christina M Babu (27) and Celestine M Babu (25), two sisters from Ollur, Thrissur, the experience is about to be different; they’ll be pursuing their PhD journey together, at one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities: Salamanca University in Spain. Founded in 1281, Salamanca University is not only the oldest university in Spain but one of the oldest in all of Europe. With a legacy that has shaped some of the world’s great thinkers, including Cervantes, it’s a place where academic tradition runs deep, and for the sisters, it feels like the perfect fit.

They’ve been fascinated by languages and cultures from a young age, something that’s been part of their life since they were kids. Growing up in cities like Delhi, Noida, and Chennai, due to their father’s job with an MNC, they quickly picked up the local languages and got used to different cultural norms. “Living in so many places meant we had to learn new languages all the time,” says Celestine. “It just became a part of our life.”

This constant exposure to new languages and cultures sparked an interest that would later shape both their academic paths. Christina ended up studying English literature at the English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU) in Hyderabad, while Celestine focused on Spanish.

For Celestine, a three-week diploma course at Salamanca University became a turning point. After finishing her master’s in Spanish, she had the chance to spend time at the university, and the idea of continuing her studies there started to take root. “I never imagined I’d go to Spain for a PhD, but when I got that opportunity, it seemed like the perfect fit,” she says.That’s when the idea of applying together came up. “I didn’t know that Spain offered PhDs in English,” Christina says. “Celestine told me about it, and I thought, why not? Let’s give it a shot.”

The sisters applied together and were soon accepted to the PhD program in Translation and Intercultural Mediation, a project that focuses on the role of language in bridging cultures. Both sisters have always shared a deep curiosity about how language shapes culture, something they’ve explored since childhood by comparing international films and shows with their own cultural experiences. “We used to watch movies from different countries and talk about what was similar or different from our culture,” Christina recalls. “It made us think more deeply about how language isn’t just a means of communication, but a window into a whole different way of life.”

Now, the two sisters are ready to explore these ideas further at one of the most well-known universities in Europe. “Salamanca has such a strong academic tradition, and we’re excited to be a part of it,” Christina says. "To be able to do it together, at such a respected university, makes it even more special."

Their decision to study in Spain has caught the attention of friends and family, who are curious about why they chose that particular destination. “When people ask why Spain, I say, ‘Why not?’” Christina laughs. “It’s an incredible opportunity, and I think more people should be aware of the great programs Spain offers.”For the sisters, the experience of studying at Salamanca together is about more than just earning degrees. “We’ve always been close, and now we’re taking this big step together,” Celestine says.

“It feels surreal but also very exciting.”As they prepare for their three-year PhD program, the sisters are excited not just about the research ahead, but about continuing their shared journey of learning and discovery. "This is a big chance for us, and we’re grateful we get to do it together," says Christina.