Hiking with friends in Granada
Seville, Spain
I knew this experience would be life changing. I knew enhance my ability to communicate in Spanish and that I would gain an appreciation for the Spanish culture here in Granada. However, what I did not realize was the profound appreciation I would gain for America. I have never been so proud to be from the United States and have never been so appreciative for everything the U.S. offers. I miss the diversity of food, religion, and thought that is everywhere in the United States. I miss my family and the feeling of being constantly surrounded by people who you know love you more than you love yourself. I miss the relaxation that comes with being able to communicate without thinking so incredibly hard. I miss healthy food; vegetables that are fresh and food that is not fried or drenched in oil.
My dad making dinner last summer
I can't wait for my dad's cookin
I have gained an appreciation for people I now see in the United States from another country, attempting to learn English. I have gained so much respect for these people and the difficulties they face daily trying to order a coffee or find a grocery store. After living here, I will make sure to go out of my way to help when I see someone in this situation, because I know how it feels to need something simple, like shampoo, but feel embarrassed about how you might sound or not be able to easily express yourself correctly to ask for help to find what you need.
If I could give advice to next years students, I would say first and foremost, live in the moment. I feel as though a lot of my time here was spent studying. This summer I had to complete and submit my medical school application so the first few weeks of my trip I was extremely overwhelmed. I think it is important you come here only having to focus on your Spanish class so you are really able to experience everything Spain has to offer. I would also recommend that the students try everything. Life here is different, but I do feel as thought I tried everything at least once. Certain things I didn't like, other things I loved, but I am leaving here knowing I soaked up every experience to the max. I would also tell other students to not be afraid to ask to change something that is bothering them, either in their host families or elsewhere. Back at home, it is rare for me to complain. I never want to cause extra work or stress on other people so if I am not happy with something, I know (most of the time) it is temporary and so just "deal". Here, six weeks is a long time to have to endure something that makes you unhappy. I would recommend to next years students to talk to your host families and explain to them if you are uncomfortable with anything.
However, there are some things I definitely would not do. Number one: Do not pack a lot! I actually shipped four large boxes home because I just could not fit everything in my suitcase and the post office here is not a fun place. I wish I had packed half of what I brought. Second, do not overestimate your proficiency in the Spanish language, study before you get here! I thought I knew so much more Spanish than I did. In Spanish 101 and 102, you are talking to students who are at your same level. Here, the people speak fast and with an accent, so I would definitely recommend for students to look over their Spanish 101 and 102 notes before arriving in Granada. Finally do not only hang out with and speak to your classmates. It was so much fun drinking with and getting to know the students and people from Granada. It is an awesome way to really understand the mode of life here and practice your Spanish! The friendships you will make with your classmates is inevitable, you see them everyday for most of the day. However, make an effort to meet and hang out with different people from all over the world. You are in a country that is so close to so many different and unique places. It is incredibly easy to meet interesting people from all over the world.
Carlos, my friend and cousin here in Granada
My time in Granada has been unforgettable. I will never forget all the incredible things I have learned, seen, and amazing the people I have met. While I will be sad to leave, I have never been so excited to return home and spend Fourth of July with the people I love in the United States.
Last year, Fourth of July
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