Sevilla has a special warmth: a unique charm, just like my time spent in the area as an auxiliar de clase at IES Mariana de Pineda (from 2020 to 2021).  Situated in Dos Hermanas, not far from the city center of Sevilla, the high school is small but endearing, mostly thanks to the people in it - the students and the staff.  I always felt supported and welcomed by not only the director of the auxiliar program, but also by the director of the school, all the teachers I worked with (and even those I only saw in the teacher’s lounge!), and the students.  

Life in Sevilla is more relaxed than other places in the world, and spending time walking the streets and exploring the city gives a sense of wonder and excitement.  There is always something happening or something to do, fantastic weather, and so many things to learn: both from the city, but also from the students and the teachers.  Whether it be how Spanish high schools work, how to ask for more chalk (if indeed the classroom needed chalk!), recommendations for places to see or things to do in the area (or food to try! The students very much loved discussing their favorite foods), how to explain something in a way the students could understand, or how to just make the students comfortable with speaking English - along with many other things!  

But, that is why I so thoroughly enjoyed my experience.  Yes, the students are always learning: learning their subjects, and learning English, and even the teachers may learn a new word or two in English!  But they’re not the only ones - you’re learning, too!  About Sevillan culture, about Spanish life, the Spanish language, and perhaps more importantly: about yourself.