My year in Asturias

My name is Caterina Amici, and I spent my junior year in Spain. I was the only exchange student placed in Asturias, so I didn't have the same experience as most of my friends had. Upon arriving in Spain I was a very shy and introverted person, but by the end I became more confident in myself. I had a lot of challenges during my year. Some being: the language(if you do not think it is important to take some classes before leaving...think again), the attention I got at school (I hadn't thought about getting put on the spot ALL the time), sharing a room, and eating so late (the Spanish eat very very late). My family was the best thing about my whole year. I love them to death and will always have a close relationship with my 3 siblings and my mother and father. My friends will also always hold a special place in my heart. It was the best year of my life, and I don't even think my first year of college will top it. If I were to give a future AFS student advice, it would be this, your year is what you make of it. It can be very difficult at times being so far away and all, but you cannot think about that stuff too much. Be open to the experience, and enjoy the time you have there. SUERTE (GOOD-LUCK)