Living in Barcelona was an absolute dream!!! When I embarked on my semester abroad in Barcelona, I had a head full of dreams and a heart filled with excitement. Little did I know that my journey would be so much more than the sum of these postcard-worthy moments. Now, as I sit down to reflect on my time abroad, I can’t help but marvel at the power of this experience.
One of the first lessons I learned during my time in Barcelona was that preconceived notions rarely align with reality. As much as I had prepared for this adventure, my initial impressions were often far from accurate. Most locals speak Catalan and I initially thought that they would all speak Spanish and English. Some locals are not as nice as others, but once you meet your people you have so much fun!! Knowing Spanish definitely helped me to communicate and get information and directions quickly and it was surprisingly very easy to adapt to living in the country
Moreover, I thought I’d be living in a place with similar weather to Texas or a little bit colder, but Barcelona’s weather had surprises up its sleeve. Rainy days were not uncommon, and I quickly realized that life here wasn’t a constant beach party. Instead, it was extremely cold during January and February. It didn’t begin to warm up till April but Barcelona itself was such an amazing city, there was something new to do every single day! The city’s rhythm was shaped by its rich history, food, and beautiful streets.
But what changed me the most was the exposure to different perspectives and cultures. Barcelona is a melting pot of nationalities, and my circle of friends included people from across the globe. Conversations with them challenged my worldview and broadened my horizons. I began to understand that the world is not black and white; it’s a beautiful tapestry of shades and colors. Not to mention all the people you meet and the culture you see in the countries you visit. During my 5 months, I traveled to over 15 countries in Europe and even Morocco in Africa which was my favorite trip ever!!
My academic journey in Barcelona was equally eye-opening. The coursework was challenging, but it pushed me to think critically and work independently. I realized the importance of a global perspective in my field of study, and I can’t help but see my future career differently now. I’m more inclined to seek opportunities that involve international collaboration and problem-solving, thanks to the inspiration I found abroad.
In the end, my time in Barcelona has changed me in ways I could never have anticipated. It taught me the value of embracing the unexpected, breaking down stereotypes, and seeking out diverse experiences. I return home with a broader outlook on life, a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity, and a profound understanding that the world is full of surprises, waiting for those who dare to explore it. So, here’s to the transformative power of travel and the final reflections that have forever altered my perspective. I hope everyone has a great experience like I did!
