My first week in Spain has been a fascinating experience. Before this program, I had never been to Europe, so this whole week has been a very new adventure. Spain is a beautiful country with a rich culture and a different way of life, but in some ways, it?s just like America. I?ve seen people wearing Chicago Bulls shirts, drinking Coke, and most people can speak some English. Despite these similarities, it?s still very unique and different in everything from the architecture to the lifestyle. The best way I?ve found to describe Barcelona itself is compact. The stores, houses, streets, cars; everything is smaller than I?m used to in Texas. The city is very walkable, the stores are much smaller with less selection, and overall it?s just closer together. Everything can be reached quickly, either by foot or by public transportation. The subway and bus systems make getting around the maze-like blocks easy (with a little practice). The locals here live much simpler lives. They meet with friends for coffee at street side tables, stop at a small store on the way home for a few things, and then meet for tapas, or snacks, at small bars nearby at night. People seem to be in much less of a hurry here, they lack the constant hustle and bustle of American life. The culture values friendship and good times highly, something I?ve come to respect and enjoy. Of course, I?m not just here to explore the city. The business program I?m here with has been very engaging and has provided me with great information. Our local professor is teaching us all about the European Union, which is something I knew very little about before this program despite its global importance to the environment of business. I?m learning so much about both business and Spanish culture, and it?s only been a week! I?m looking forward to further exploring the city, learning more about international business, and seeing the amazing landmarks of Barcelona in the weeks to come!
