In my head, coming into this study abroad trip, I was expecting to have the most picture perfect, easy European summer. I expected every single day was going to be full of fun, exciting and new adventures. These past five weeks have definitely been full of so many unique experiences that I am so grateful to have. But in reality, not every moment traveling/studying abroad is as picturesque as it seems from the outside looking in. Throughout my five weeks here in Barcelona, I have learned so much both from the fun experiences I have but also the challenges you face when living in another country as well.?
A lot of the time I have spent here could definitely be classified as a picturesque European summer. Over the past five weeks I have gotten to immerse myself in the Spanish culture and adapt to a new, slow pace of life. I have gotten to eat delicious, traditional Spanish cuisine, having lots and lots of tapas especially patatas bravas. Not only have I gotten to eat delicious meals, but also have had the ability to sit around a table at each meal with the people I am here with, having conversations and deepening relationships. The sweetest, ease, and community aspect of meals here in Spain is something I definitely want to take back with me.?
I have also had the ability to see so many incredible sights as well. I have gotten to watch the sunsets from the Barracks. I have gotten to tour the architectural masterpieces of Antoni Gaud?, such as Sagradia familia, Park G?ell, and Casa Bastille each of which require you to use your imagination to transform yourself into the world Gaudi was trying to create through his art. Out of these three, Casa Bastille was definitely my favorite as stepping into this house and using your imagination transforms you into the world and under the ocean. Not only have I had the ability to visit things in Spain, but I have also gotten to experience places outside of this country through traveling to Mallorca, France, and Switzerland on the weekends. These aspects of my time here definitely lived up to the ideal European summer I expected to have.?
But living in a setting that is outside of my comfort zone can also be hard. It can be hard learning to live and do life with other people for five weeks. It can be hard learning how to travel around a new city and manage money (trust me the metros around here can get a little frustrating at times). It can be hard learning how to want to try my hardest in school while also not letting it prevent me from going and experiencing new things during my time here.?
Now, sitting here reflecting on the time I have spent in Spain, I realize how grateful I am for both the fun and challenging experiences I have had here. Even though it might not be the most picturesque experience according to a scale of ease and perfection, each moment and opportunity has taught me so many lessons that I know I will carry with me into the future. I am confident that I will always look back on this trip and place with such joy and gratitude.
