AnnaInSpain

What does study abroad mean to me? Study abroad represents to me opportunity, growth, and new experiences. It is an opportunity to continue my education in a different country while experiencing a new environment and learning more about myself simultaneously. It is the start of an exciting and new chapter of my life. This fall I will be studying abroad in Granada, Spain for three months. I had a decent amount of knowledge on Spain prior to deciding to study there partially because I have friends in Spain and learned about aspects of their culture. I am a double major in Spanish and Political Science and Spain is the obvious country to study in to master my Spanish skills even though they technically speak Castellano. Once I narrowed down the country the city was next and was chosen through careful consideration of classes offered. Another consideration was the region being that in Spain there are more languages spoken than just Castellano. Catalan in Barcelona, Euskera in the Basque Country, Galician in Galicia, and Valencian in Valencia each autonomous community with their own language and culture. This was an important aspect to consider unique to Spain. Each country is different, and the research involved may vary for each individual study abroad experience.

I have had months to reflect on what I imagine my experience will be like and what I am most excited about. A few things rank top of the list. One being that I will be able to practice my Spanish and be in an immersive environment. Another aspect is meeting new people and in a new environment where I will establish a routine and make a life for myself in Spain. Food is a big part of a culture and I have heard only great things about the tapas (appetizers/snacks) and finally the nightlife in Spain will be an experience I’m sure I will never forget. Most importantly I am excited about the fact that I will finally have the opportunity to experience it all myself and live it and not just learn or hear about it from people. Why learn and hear about it when you can live it? Along with the excitement there is always nerves. My biggest concern is probably the language placement exam that will determine the classes I take in Spain. The language adjustment is all part of the experience though. Another concern is balancing classes while also socializing but like at any new university it is common. In order to overcome a few of these challenges I plan to go in with an open mind and most importantly positive mentality. My experience abroad is what I make of it!