I could not even begin to explain how unique this experience has been. Living in Barcelona with a COVID outbreak, still trying to roll with the punches of a different country, and taking classes has made for one of the best challenges I?ve encountered. Getting up and going at 7am was once unheard of from me but quickly became a norm. There were classes in the morning and exploration in the evenings. I?ve learned Spanish at a pace faster than even Duolingo can handle. The amount I?ve taken away from this trip far exceeds the cost to go on it.
I joined this study abroad because someone once told me, ?you can travel all your life, but you will never be as young and free as you are now and that?s special.? I now know what he means. With no obligations except those I gave myself, I was able to fully submerge myself in the culture and take back with me qualities I never thought of having. From dressing up for the most casual events, to sitting down to enjoy a nice meal for awhile. I have taken this study abroad for everything it had. I fully encourage anyone thinking of traveling to do so and find those little things that make it unique to you. I have grown within this past month in a manner that can only come from being away from home.