As I sit here reflecting on my time abroad, with less than three weeks left in the semester, I find myself eager to share the insights that I have gained since my departure. This journey has changed me greatly, and I am so very glad I took the leap of faith to study abroad. I cannot recommend studying abroad enough to any prospective students, and I could rave on and on about Barcelona as well as Spain.
One of the most impactful aspects of this experience has been the people I have met and encountered. They’ve shattered my preconceived notions about the world and have challenged my perspective on American stereotypes abroad. Truly engaging and interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds has deepened my understanding of different cultures and has played a critical role in developing cultural competency.
Initially overwhelming, the bustling city that never sleeps has grown on me. I now find solace in Barcelona’s nightlife and consistent lively atmosphere throughout my neighborhood in L ‘Eixample. I think it’s remarkable how adaptable people can be when exposed to new environments. Through my semester abroad I have been more flexible than I ever have been before and because of this, I can face change with open arms.
That being said, there are some things that I wish I had known earlier. The third week of class our professor informed us that locals, especially the older crowd, have reservations about interacting with “guiris”, a Spanish word used to describe foreigners, often British tourists. By extension, many of the Barcelona natives might come off a bit abrasive to Americans who they deem too loud or gaudy. Understanding this dynamic before coming to Spain would have helped me navigate social situations more smoothly. However; I found that sticking to Spanish and keeping conversation volumes to a minimum, usually appeased the Spaniards and reduced the amount of open stares we received.
Another insight I wish to share with my past self is the value of seizing opportunities without hesitation. Booking flights or embracing new adventures seemed daunting initially, but I have come to discover that my ability to adapt and handle cultural shocks far exceeded my expectations. Additionally, fluency in English and Spanish has proven to be a remarkable asset, opening doors and fostering connections beyond what I anticipated.
The most surprising part of my global experience has been the relaxed pace of Spanish living. As I have mentioned in previous blogs, it’s starkly different from the States and has created a sense of calm that I’ve grown fond of. I often wonder if I’ll ever feel this serene back home. Contemplating a permanent move here is tempting, but I’m aware of the many complexities and nuances involved.
Moreover, the social norms within the Spanish classrooms have astounded me. Professors taking impromptu breaks during class to smoke a cigarette or engage in unusual activities like tarot card readings have been eye-opening. I’ve come to like this approach since it fosters a unique learning environment, encouraging open conversations and a sense of camaraderie among students and professors.
In the blink of an eye, three months have passed and the bitter-cold midwest winter is looming in my near future. Above all, I wish I could go back in time to tell myself to relish every moment here in Barcelona, embrace the unknown, and be prepared for the unexpected.
