Today was the official last day of class as tomorrow is the final exam (keep your fingers crossed for me!) It was truly bittersweet. I will definitely miss Profesora Patricia y Maricha. They are both unique in their own ways and bring different dynamics to the class. Patricia es muy divertida y simpatica. Maricha es seria y simpatica. Both with a passion to teach Spanish. Salamanca is such a quaint and beautiful city with tons to offer students wanting to study Spanish! We have one final excursion this weekend to a small town LA Alberca- Pena de Feancia which I am very excited about.

As this week wraps up and most of us go back to reality (work or school or even both), I will miss the friends that have been like family over the passed 3 weeks. As each of us have grown closer and formed bonds to each other I hope to stay in touch with everyone to see what journey life has to offer them. Margaret has taught me that you are never too young or old to follow your dream and learn different languages. Melissa and Jackie help me stay focused in class and always keep me laughing. Oh and I can not forget about Melissa’s scooter, as everyone in Salamanca was fascinated as she zoomed all around town! Katie is sweet and passionate about learning Spanish and always willing to help/translate! Constantine is a true humanitarian with a kind heart from rehabilitating a bird, to listening to life lessons with Gypsies,  and has a passion and love for graffiti and culture. Chelesa, and Cheri  are bright, friendly and youthful which has helped me stay young at heart on this trip! Anything that Brennen and Tristen set their mind to; they will accomplish. Along with them being not too bad on stage at Karaoke night. My partner in crime Shane, he is so laid back and just goes with the flow and somehow always manages to find the hotspots, by the way I still want to make an owl necklace!  Last but not least the BEST professor EVER, Roxana thank you for everything you do for all of us. Wishing everyone the best of luck with their future endeavors.

More tips: This summer was extra hot which is not necessarily normal, but make sure to bring light weight clothing, summer dress etc. If you forgot, there are tons of shops here to buy them.

Second week has flown by. Sad to think we have less than 7 days left in this beautiful country. So, here are some tips for students going to Study Abroad,  make sure you bring COMFORTABLE walking shoes, this is because you do A LOT of walking. I have enjoyed walking around the city! Drinks lots and lots of water! The temperature varies and has been hot this summer, so very important you check out the forecast. The professors in Estudio Sampere are extremely nice, friendly, and have a genuine interest in seeing you succeed. We have taken several excursions, from Portugal – Oporto, back to Spain to Segovia and Avila. The beach in Portugal was beautiful and reminded me of home. The water was freezing even though it was very hot outside! Segovia, what an amazing city. The history of the aqueduct was interesting and I loved listening to all the legends this town had to offer(compliments of our tour guides.) The castle, cathedrals, and shops in Segovia were breathtaking to experience. A huge shout out and thank to the best driver in all of Spain “Pedro” who gets us there and back safely!

Profesora Roxanna Levin has been my lifesaver this past week! Let’s just say I have been able to do my homework at all hours of the day with her wifi! She is always there when you need her and I couldn’t image being on this trip with someone else. She has a true passion for students emerging themselves in the Spanish culture. She is extremely kind, thoughtful, and full of life. She is extremely enthusiastic about everything she does, and makes you want to learn more. She also has a genuine interest for all her students to succeed in learning Español! She has a passion to share her knowledge and open her door at anytime of the day (literally, anytime if any of her students need anything). I would like to genuinely thank Profesora Levin for everything she does for her students (even the one she adopts from other classes!) What an amazing experience this has been so far!

The first week has flown by and what an amazing experience it has been so far. The first few days in the country were very overwhelming but as each day passes it gets easier. The host families have been so nice. The professors at Estudio Sampere are extremely helpful and patient. The SPC group has started to form great friendships that will hopefully last a lifetime. We have celebrated 2 birthdays on the same day!!!! Happy birthday Brennen and Shane!! What a great way to end the week with being able to watch the game in the Plaza Mayor with great people.. Wish Spain could have won but maybe next time. Adios!!