Life As An Aux

The move in September felt so daunting but also thrilling. It was something that was hard to explain to others who never had done the same thing. However, you being to realize really quickly that the daunting feeling was just your nerves taking over of what the unknown consisted of. Within week 2, the thrill starts to creep up and it doesn't really leave you. Madrid has so much to offer, as an aux and as an expat now living here. I have learned so much about myself and the world as days go on. The teaching aspect is so much more fulfilling than I ever thought it would be honestly. You realize very quickly that the students admire your presence in the classroom and the teacher values your knowledge and English Language. It's not just something you attend for a year of your life but rather a year that will make your life. What I mean by that is, your perspective on people, places, and things changes for the better. As cliche as it sounds, it really does and I am only 4-5 months in. You realize that being lucky enough to wake up in a different country was the goal all along. Your travels, work, and the people you meet will linger within you. The people here are so friendly and welcoming that it was so easy to adjust into the work schedule and way of life they simply execute here in Madrid. It's almost as if Spain isn't just a country filled with people but a country that is entirely a community. The romanticization of the city commute was something I didn't realize would happen naturally coming from a suburban child and young adult. It naturally gives you time to breathe, think, people watch, gather inspiration whether that be from human interaction or through the lens of your own eyes and ears. You see a lot but you also feel a lot, emotion that is. However, it is always a nice feeling knowing I am not alone in this journey even if I feel like it at times. That is always comforting...knowing there are other aux's out living in Madrid experiencing the same emotions you are. Also, the CIEE community is always offering events to attend and people to see/hangout with that bring a sense of comfort if you are ever feeling like you need a pick me up and need to get out and do something or meet people. The city is truly overwhelming in the best way. That's what I've been telling everyone from home. Overwhelming because it offers so many things that you feel like you are going to miss out on not doing it all. However, you start to realize that time here moves differently than in America. It's slower...your days feel longer. Travel is less expensive. Making memories and experiencing new places and environments seem to feel more less of a task that has to be completed but more of a habit and routine that you partake in because it's so assessable. Life as an aux is a blessing, truly, it's just how you choose to view that blessing that will make it or break it. I'll tell you now, it will make you if you make it.