Three weeks into my stay in Barcelona and I find myself reflecting on how much this experience has shaped me. The initial excitement of exploring a new city has been accompanied by the challenges of balancing academic demands with the desire to immerse myself in everything Barcelona has to offer! The coursework in MGMT 311 and IBUS 450 has felt rigorous and demanding. The fast-paced nature of the classes, coupled with company visits, has made it difficult to fully enjoy the beauty and culture of Barcelona I’ve wanted to experience individually. Despite this, I’ve still managed to love every minute of the program by finding joy in small, everyday adventures. A quick stop at a local bakery for a fresh croissant during our class breaks, a walk by the beach, or even just riding the metro with my friends has become my way of appreciating the city amidst a hectic schedule!
One aspect of this experience that has been particularly challenging is reconciling my presence as a tourist with the impact of over-tourism on the local community. It’s difficult to ignore the signs of discontent among locals, who are struggling with rising housing costs and displacement due to the influx of tourists. Witnessing protests and reading about the housing crisis has been a good reminder of the complexities of tourism. The conversations with locals are what have truly been eye-opening. I was able to talk with the owner of a coffee shop near our university about her mixed feelings on tourism. This duality of the situation has made me more conscious of the delicate balance between being a visitor and respecting the residents’ way of life.
Building connections with the friends ive made on the program has been a highlight of my time here. We’ve bonded over shared experiences and challenges, transforming from strangers into a close-knit group. Whether it’s late-night study sessions, spontaneous trips to other countries, or simply enjoying a meal together, these moments have created lasting memories and strengthened bonds that will follow us back to College Station.
The most significant personal growth has come from navigating these complexities and finding balance. Living in Barcelona has taught me to be adaptable and resilient, to appreciate the small joys amidst a busy life, and to be more conscious of the broader impacts of my actions. This experience has broadened my perspective, making me more empathetic and globally aware. Reflecting on these past weeks, I realize that the combination of academic challenges and cultural immersion has been transformative. It’s not just about learning business concepts; it’s about understanding the people, culture, and socio-economic dynamics that shape the world around us. As I look forward to the remaining weeks, I am eager to continue growing, both academically and personally. Barcelona has already made a lasting impact on me, and I am excited to see what more it has in store.