Hey guys! There is no way to explain how I?m feeling about going to Barcelona. It seems so surreal that I have the opportunity to go to the country I?ve always wanted to visit! I?ve always been curious about Spanish culture given that my great-great-grandparents were from Spain. When I learned about the faculty-led study abroad during the summer, I knew I had to apply.
I was careful not to get too excited since I knew that COVID may change plans. I could barely contain my excitement when I knew I had been selected! I began to research all about Spain. Since I knew I was going to be in Catalunya, I researched a little bit about the language and culture, and food that Catalans regularly enjoy. I was also careful to research tourist habits that Catalans hate and a few current political ongoings. I made sure to bring as little casual clothes as I could and try to learn a few Catalan phrases.
I can?t wait to see how things look in person in Barcelona! I expect it to have little cobblestone alleyways with tall buildings, and I daydream about being there because I?ve always wanted to walk in a neighborhood like that. I have never explored a city before, as I am from a small town, so I know I?ll have to be super careful, but I am sure I?ll love seeing a city with as much history as Barcelona.
Though I knew a few things about Barcelona from my obsession with visiting Spain, I didn?t know just how much there was to do and explore until I investigated. Many of the trips that have been planned for us are actually things that I had put on my to-do list, so I?m excited about that. I believe having other people there will be fun, but I will also be exploring alone (safely) because I like to take my time and be alone sometimes. Though I did hear that Spain is a major country for petty crime like pickpocketing, and I?m preparing and learning as much as I can.
There is so much going through my mind, and I?m worried that I will forget to pack something, but as my mom said, ?as long as you have your passport, money, and caution, everything will fall into place.?
I can?t wait to see how studying and staying in Barcelona will truly feel like!