Before Departure: Uncertainty and Excitement
Before heading to Spain, I masked my nervousness with excitement. I didn’t know what to expect from my classes, the people I’d meet, or the places I’d see. Family and friends asked questions I didn’t have answers to, but that only added to the thrill—this was going to be an adventure.
Settling In: Everyday Challenges
My first challenges were surprisingly small: grocery shopping, finding a study spot, and navigating daily life—all in a new language and culture. Having a life-threatening food allergy added another layer of uncertainty. Even bigger choices—like where to travel in Europe—felt daunting. I’d always seen myself as adaptable, but studying abroad put that to the test.
Academic Life: A Different Kind of Learning
Classes in Sevilla were nothing like home. Instead of big lectures and written exams, I found myself in tiny discussion-based courses like Digital Storytelling—with only four classmates! Field trips to places like the ancient ruins of Italica replaced sitting at a desk. The academic rhythm was slower, more interactive, and focused on learning through experience.
Everyday Growth: Embracing Self-Reflection
The biggest surprise? How much time I spent reflecting on myself—my choices, likes, and dislikes. Instead of letting indecision pass me by, I used it as a way to get to know myself better. Every stressful or uncertain moment turned into an opportunity for growth, even if it was just a quick thought while wandering my neighborhood.
Cultural Immersion: More Than Just the Sights
Sevilla became my classroom—through its food, dances, and conversations. I practiced Spanish while discussing digital media or Spanish cinema, and explored new countries on weekends. My usual pressures from home fell away, and I simply focused on living, learning, and connecting.
The Power of Letting Go
Over time, I learned to trust my instincts. I realized I did know what I wanted—I just needed to listen to myself. Study abroad awakened a new hunger for adventure, challenge, and, yes, uncertainty.
Looking Forward: Just Getting Started
When my program ended, I felt a twinge of regret for things left undone—more places to see, words to say, people to meet. But I now see that finishing my time in Sevilla wasn’t the end, but truly just the beginning.
Thanks to Spanish Studies Abroad in Sevilla, I’ve started a life-long journey of self-discovery and understanding others’ stories. As a student journalist, this adventure is just the beginning of sharing those stories with the world.
