Hi everyone, my experience thus far has been an invaluable learning experience, and somewhat challenging at times. To future travelers I recommend to take the advice given at the pre-departure meetings and use the buddy system and always carry a map, along with your address and emergency contact information – my very first night I got lost on the way home. Also, come fully prepared!  Make sure you attend all of the pre-departure meetings and get to know your fellow classmates, so you can have a sense of solidarity and cohesiveness.  Even if you have to work like I did it’s imperative to reach out and make friends before you arrive in a new country.  Also, do research about the Country, and the effects of different altitudes and time zones and take the appropriate steps, so your body can adjust and adapt.

That being said, the city is beautiful, as well as the surrounding provinces.  It’s as if each street has it’s own historical landmarks.  We’ve traveled to the surrounding provinces like Segovia, Avila, Zamora and even Portugal and France.  Every day is a new adventure and we have cultural learning experiences almost every day after class.  The Professors are friendly and more than willing to help in every aspect of day to day life.  There are many opportunities to learn here including tutoring sessions and volunteering at local non-profit organizations.

I’m very grateful to have been a part of this experience and encourage others to take advantage of these once in a lifetime study abroad programs.