All posts by Ronda Bailey

Spain Study Abroad: Fantastic First Day

Spain 2019, Study Abroad

IMG-20160618-WA0009This is only the first day of classes in Spain and it has been a great experience.  I was a bit apprehensive about traveling to a country that was so far away from home. After landing in Spain I was welcomed by the country. I arrived to Spain a few days before the program started so I was able to explore Madrid. There is sunlight in Madrid for a very long time. I was able to explore the city until 9 pm at night with natural light from the sun.

The first day of class was fantastic. Seeing all my classmates conversing with each other increased my excitement for the program. While we all awaited our oral exams to determine our placements we all expressed the things that we were enjoying. Some of the students were giving suggestions on what we could do in our spare time. One thing that I noticed about this group I am traveling with, is that the students are making an effort to bond with each other. Also the students that are more proficient at Spanish are willing to help the other students with their conversational skills.

Today after the conclusion of classes we took a tour of Salamanca, the city we are staying in. We learned a bit about the history of the buildings. I have only been in Spain for four days but it feels like home to me. I am looking forward to what else Spain has in store for me.

 

Pura Vida: New Experience In Costa Rica

Costa Rica (Spanish), Study Abroad

Coming to Costa Rica for this Study Abroad program has been a wonderful experience for me. I was apprehensive traveling to a foreign country to learn Spanish but it turned out to be the best way to learn the language.

The first day of school the staff at ILISA were all so welcoming. It was fantastic to be able to gaze upon the mountains from the cafeteria of the school. All of the other SPC students wanted to have their pictures taken with the mountain as the background.

The home family I am staying with is very kind. My mamatica (Costa Rican Mom) always make sure that all the students staying in the house are happy and comfortable. She is also a fantastic cook so dinner is one of the best part of the days down here in Costa Rica.

On the weekends here in Costa Rica I and the other students do different activities. One example I was able to go canopying and white water rafting with three other students. I was able to overcome my fear of heights and water, while enjoying all the wonderful nature of Costa Rica.
The Study Abroad program in Costa Rica is very fun. I think I am a better person because of this wonderful opportunity. I would recommend this program to my fellow students because it is a fun and practical way to learn Spanish.