When you chose to study abroad, what made you want to study in Spain?
I chose to study abroad because I absolutely love the Spanish language and culture. I wanted to be able to experience both things firsthand and I knew it would be an amazing learning experience. I also have many friends who had studied abroad and all of them had advised me to study abroad because they all had had great experiences.
My best friend had studied abroad in Spain the year before and had a great experience. Listening to her stories and seeing her pictures made me want to travel to this amazing country as well. I had also never been to Europe so I wanted the chance to study in a European country.
Looking back, what was your favorite aspect about studying in Spain?
It is hard to choose just one thing that was the best part of studying abroad because my entire experience was truly amazing. Living with my host family is definitely at the top because they were so loving and welcoming from the moment I met them. Living with a host family meant that I was forced to practice my Spanish, which was great, because I couldn't rely on speaking English like I did with fellow program participants. I also got a firsthand look at the culture and it was a great way to really see how a typical Spanish family lives.
Did you run into any difficulties when you were settling in?
The first week was hard because you are getting used to a new culture and country and it takes time to adjust. I was homesick a lot and that didn't help either. I was lucky though because the resident director for my program was very supportive and gave me great advice on getting over the homesickness.
What is one thing you’ll always remember about your time in Spain?
My most memorable experiences were all the trips we would take on our own to explore nearby cities. It was great trying to figure out how to get from one city to the next, where to stay, and immersing ourselves in the local culture.
What classes did you take when you were abroad?
I tested into the intermediate level for Spanish classes. Monday through Friday I had five hours of class. They were divided into grammar, conversation, and listening classes. My classmates were from around the world and my professors were great. The classes and the people I met in the classroom were definitely highlights in my experience abroad.
What were the perks of your living situation?
I lived with a host family and that decision made a huge difference in my experience abroad. I was able to get a firsthand experience of the typical daily life of a Spaniard, enjoyed great home cooked meals, and had wonderful conversations with my host family. It was also another opportunity for me to practice my Spanish some more.
How did you deal with your family and friends back home?
It was difficult at first to leave my family and friends but they were very supportive of me going abroad. I talked to my family a lot through Skype and was able to keep in contact with friends through Facebook.
What impact has your studying abroad had on you?
I feel that I have grown up a lot as a person. I am more open to new things and my priorities have changed since going abroad.
What is one thing you wish you knew before you studied abroad?
I wish I had realized how fast 6 weeks would go by because my time abroad was way too short.
Do you recommend study abroad to other students?
Absolutely!!! I think studying abroad is an experience every student should definitely take advantage of. There are so few opportunities once you graduate college to drop everything and be able to live in a different country for a while. Studying abroad is such a life changing experience and you grow so much as a person.
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