Summer 1 2022

Not to be dramatic, but my study abroad experience in Seville, Spain is all I ever talk and think about. I am that person who always references their time studying abroad whenever I get the chance to do so. Seville was special to me because I was already pretty familiar with the culture of southern Spain from having taken Spanish classes in the past. I made so many friends in my program and made so many connections and had an absolutely unforgettable time.

I lived with a host family which was extremely helpful in practicing the language and learning the culture. Living in the on-campus housing would've been a convenient choice, but I wanted to experience life abroad in the most authentic ways possible. I miss my host mom's cooking! Forcing yourself to be immersed in the culture & language is a great way to fully appreciate it.

One of the most challenging aspects of going abroad was the traveling in general. I made it a point to "rehearse" traveling by making checklists, fitting things into my suitcase, going through security, deciding what would go into my carry-on, etc. One of the most important things I learned is to pack a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage in case of flight delays or cancellations.

One negative thing I have to say is surrounding culture shock. This is a common occurrence and I was in no way exempt! Program managers can warn you, but until you get there and experience it yourself, you find that there's really no way out but through. One of the most pertinent examples of culture shock I experienced was in customer service related scenarios. Spaniards don't waste time saying "hi, how are you?" at restaurants or stores. Everything is very to-the-point and straightforward. Asking how someone is is reserved for close personal relationships only!

I will spend forever trying to maintain the happiness and carefreeness I experienced during my study abroad experience. I learned so much more than I thought I would, about myself and the world, as well as practicing speaking Spanish. If someone ever mentions going abroad to me, I try to convince them to do it because it was the best time of my entire life.