Studying abroad is undoubtedly one of the most unique and incredible programs I have been a part of. The chance to travel halfway across the world and experience an entirely different culture, while also sightseeing and getting to live in an amazing city is something I would recommend to anyone who asked me about it. This has really impacted my personal perspective of some of the smaller aspects of how to go about day-to-day life. One big thing I learned was making every single day count. Too often, I get caught up in routines and schedules so I will just go through a day and treat it like it is just one of many. However, in Barcelona, we are here for such a finite period so there is a big emphasis on using each day to its full potential. When I look back on every single day of the trip, I can point to at least one moment that is now a great memory. Going back to the US and College Station, I want to make sure that I keep utilizing each day to its max. Not taking any hour for granted and using them all to appreciate my last two years in college. Another interesting takeaway is the minimalism that is so common here. Part of that is the culture and the other part is that I packed lightly for the trip, but it was refreshing to not have lots of stuff to worry about. In college, I am going to try and be much more careful and particular with how I arrange my space and the amount of items that I have. Lastly, I think I am really going to appreciate the accessibility of drinks in America. When you go to a restaurant, you have to pay for water and it?s not free refills so you really end up drinking a lot less water than you should. As for plastic water bottles, the ones they sell in Spain are pretty standard at 1.5 liters, which is an unusual adjustment. Lastly, I just really love sweet tea so I can?t wait to get back to Chikfila and order the finest dining they have to offer.
