After spending 28 days in Barcelona, my study abroad trip is officially over. I have had so much fun getting to explore the city and the areas around it, and I will undoubtedly carry this experience with me for the rest of my life. One of the main lessons I learned during my time abroad was that traveling is the best way to gain perspective. Before going on this trip, I had never studied abroad before, so my knowledge of the world was very limited. Getting to live in a busy city like Barcelona around so many different people really opens your eyes to how much there is to see and experience. A couple weeks ago when I was still in Barcelona, Spain played in the Euro final against England. I had the opportunity to watch the game in Placa de Catalunya, the center of the big city. Seeing all of the Spaniards gathered to celebrate and cheer on their team was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I had so much fun getting to interact and watch the game with other people in Barcelona. Spain has such a rich and engaging culture, and it is so eye-opening to see it first hand.
One thing that I believe helps Barcelona stand out is their architecture. If you appreciate intricate buildings and abstract architecture, this place is for you. Every block that I walked on there was something new to see, and I loved walking around any chance that I had. Additionally, Barcelona is close to several other cities that are worth checking out. During our time in Spain, our group traveled to Montserrat, Solsona, Blanes, and other incredible cities that are worth checking out. Spain has so many great sightseeing spots, and it’s impossible to run out of things to do.
All in all, studying abroad was hands down the best decision I’ve made, and I think every college student should give it a try. If you are considering taking a study abroad trip to Spain, I cannot encourage it enough. Coming from someone who was scared of traveling and feeling homesick, it did not take me long to adjust and fall in love with the place. Barcelona is such an incredible city that has countless things for you to do, and time flies while you’re there. CIBS did an incredible job of structuring the program and planning activities throughout our trip, and I’m extremely grateful to have experienced this. I learned so much about myself and the rest of the world, and I can’t wait to travel again in the future!
