Studying abroad in Barcelona not only taught me a lot about myself, but also about how I can interact with others around both in a personal and professional situation. This opportunity gave me a chance to learn and actively apply what I was learning in class to real life situations. During class we learned the importance of being well versed in different cultures in order to meet people halfway when it comes to interactions. Going to Spain I knew that daily interactions were going to look a little different, but I didn’t realize how obvious it would be. The difference between “American” and “Spanish” mannerisms were evident, whether it’s how Americans smiled so much to strangers or it’s how the Spanish are more straightforward, the differences were clear. As a visitor, it was my job to become adaptable to these differences, and through this I realized there is so much that different cultures can learn from each other. Study abroad served as the perfect outlet to surround myself with people that were different from me. Whether it was having different birth places, beliefs, dynamics, mannerisms, I was surrounded by people that I could learn from.
Throughout this experience, I also learned that I am so much more capable of living overseas than I thought I was. I’ve always wanted to travel for work, but I was also a bit nervous when it came to deciding if I could see myself living abroad for longer periods of time. This experience cemented my desire to not only travel, but move overseas. Every event that Texas A&M planned for my group, whether it was business trips, cooking classes, cultural experiences, or even our student living areas, I was exposed to so many new experiences. That excitement I had for each event is a feeling that I want to preserve. I am more okay with being uncomfortable. I was nervous having to be away from my parents, my home, my friends, and everything else I was used to. However, getting to experience what it was like to be so far away from home showed me that I could handle all that nervousness.
I am so grateful for this unique experience, and I am so thankful for Texas A&M for allowing me to be part of this trip!
