After being given the opportunity to study abroad, I could proudly tell everyone that living here in Salamanca, Spain for three weeks was the best decision of my life. This wonderful study abroad experience has imprint a positive impression on my life that I will cherish forever. It offers the chances to explore and discover a country’s history and culture along with their normal customs, and lifestyles. Studying abroad has given me the opportunity to communicate with people of different background, and I was able to learn from their language and culture. It also gave me a chance to improve my Spanish which also enhance my listening and speaking skills.
It was difficult at first, when I arrived the first day in Salamanca I was told that my host family spoke no English. However, as time passed and with copious attempt to speak with my host family, we were able to carry on a decent conversation. I was fortunate to have Juani as my host mother as she cooked very well. Everyday I could try something new, delicious, and exciting foods. She was also very friendly and my Spanish was improved due to our many interactions. Learning directly from human communication was a much faster approach than self-study, especially when it comes to languages. And who better to learn from than native speakers? I am grateful that I have been able to live with her and will miss her dearly when I return home to the United States.
My favorite thing from this study abroad experience is the friendships I am making. The amazing thing about new group of friends are our share of interest. Like myself, they all love to travel, to learn something new, and to discover different things. I feel blessed to have met such beautiful, active and talented people and becoming friends with them. Even though we only shared three weeks together I already feel that we are a family. With only a week left in the program I already miss Chase, Isabella, Scottie, Maddie, Ronelia, Griffin, Teresa, Jennifer, Eytan, April, Valerie, Parker, Anthony, Joshua, Sanjay, Roy, Maryclare, Friderikas, Haile, Rebekah, Dorothy, Jaci, and my roommate Charae , and the journey that we shared on this trip. From each hardship of attempting to communicate in another language with the natives and cramming to do our studies in the fast past of the summer course, to each joy of when we succeeded in a conversation and passing our studies would be treasured in my memories.
Importantly, I appreciate professor Levin and Albrecht for giving us a chance to study in a rich history and architecture of Salamanca. Although we have lived here for only a short time, we have had numerous of opportunities to explore sites such as the cathedral towers and museums of Salamanca; going on excursions to Segovia, San Sebastián, and Biarritz France during the weekends. Including many fun activities every single day such as learning salsa, Zumba and cooking. I am able to see different parts of the country and learn many things from their lifestyle and cultures. I am forever grateful and adored the teachers that had provided me an opportunity that had broaden my horizon.
In final words, I would definitely do it again if I have another chance to undergo another study abroad program as this one was such a lovely life experience for myself. I will recommend this wonderful once in a lifetime experience to everyone I know including my cousins and friends. Moreover, It is a wonderful experience that no one should ever pass. Right now, I feel I am one of the luckiest people in the world to have this chance and opportunity to shape my life to become a more well-rounded person and being one step closer to being an even better person.