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During our 4 weeks in Spain, the majority of the excursions were guided by out professors. However, for 4 days we were able to explore Barcelona completely on our own. There were so many places we went, saw, and things we did. This was my favorite weekend of my entire study abroad. This photo is a view from the top of some stairs that we randomly came across when walking in Barcelona, Spain. This view captures the famous Sagrada Familia, the Barcelona coast, and the many colors of the streets of Barcelona.
The joy of studying abroad in a small town with a small group of people is we were able to create lasting memories together. There were so many moments after school and throughout the afternoon where we were able to bond with each other. I now consider this group of people some of my greatest friends. This picture was taken at a small little park, where we would watch the sunset over the city of Segovia. In the background is the famous cathedral of Segovia, as well as the Roman Aqueduct, both staples in the cityscape of Segovia.
Some of my favorite places that we visited were the cathedrals in each city. Catholicism is a huge part of Spanish history, and these cathedrals are nothing like you can find in the United States or really anywhere else. They are filled with rich history while each one is unique compared to the other. This photo is from the biggest Cathedral we visited (besides the Sagrada Familia), in Toledo, Spain. This is at the center altar where you can view the Virgin Mary with their giant organ. Being Catholic myself, it was so cool to see the roots of the faith and how people have supported it through gorgeous architectures and services throughout Europe.
This photo is from my first few days in Segovia and has ever since been one of my favorites. The view from the calle real en la ciudad antigua (main road in the old city). This photo was amazing because it captures the modern life of the people of Segovia, and how most people live in small apartments. Segovia was also amazing because it was located near the mountains, so the weather was never too hot. While we got to travel a lot outside of Segovia, there was still a bunch of down time to explore where we were living. During these times, I would spend many hours at the café on this corner with friends, and this view doing my homework assignments and papers.
Each outing, a different set of people were responsible for writing a blog about what we did on our excursions. This was a photo from one of my blog entries about our 2 day trip to Toledo and Madrid. In the center, you can see our professor (from Spain), Luis, explaining the importance of this Plaza Mayor (Main Plaza), our meeting place for the next day. He made it very known that you know you are in the right place if you see the two golden arches. Luis was a key in all our excursions being our personal tour guide, whether it was through the streets, the art museums, or on the bus. I would not have learned so much about Spanish history and culture if it weren’t for his excellent knowledge in the subject.
Ashley's Experience in spain:
Ashley's Experience in spain:
Award recipient in Summer 2019
Segovia (and Spain) has forever changed my life, and for the better. I never realized how much the opportunity to study abroad would change my point of view. I always thought that I was well rounded and informed when it came to other cultures since I grew up in the United States and Aruba. However, there was still so much I did not know. Throughout the entire trip, I was forced to explore a world far outside of my comfort zone. Whether that was through meeting new people, using my second language on a regular basis, or exploring new foods.
Going into the program I was most nervous about fitting in with the group that I was traveling with, as well as being accepted by my host family. Meeting new people takes a lot of effort because I am naturally introverted; however, the whole study abroad group turned out to be super amazing people! I was surprised about how quickly I connected with people, both in the group and all-around Segovia. My favorite person I met was a waitress at Diva’s who is so friendly and knows my regular order! My host family also practiced a lot of patience and understanding with me and encouraged me to go out and explore Segovia! They gave me tons of great tips on what to explore and where to go in Barcelona, as well as other cities around Spain. I am going to miss them deeply and will forever remember Pedro and Luisa. Overall, I could never think of a better group of people or community to have when exploring a new country and new cultures.
Moving towards the professional future, being in Spain, and living in a country that does not speak English has helped me be empathetic towards my future, and current students. Last semester I got to observe new ESL students and classes, seeing how second language immersion
works for young children. All I can say is that I can relate to their exhaustion. For the first week in Spain, I was constantly exhausted because there was so much Spanish input (and a little because of the jetlag). To think, the students in my classes, and ESL classes, will be experiencing what I did for a month, for a long time. It takes a lot, and I give these students mad props for being able to handle it all at such a young age.
I think that my favorite thing over the course of the entire program was getting to travel to all the various cities and towns throughout Spain! The top of course, being Barcelona. Getting to explore a beautiful city with a wonderful group of people was the first time I got to explore a city on my own with total freedom. Walking the streets in all the cities there was so much to see. From the designs of the buildings, to the exterior of the cathedrals, there is no such beauty that exists within the United States. Overall, traveling around Spain has taught me to roll with the punches and be more patient. Both of these skills are very beneficial to have in the future, both in my professional career and life.
What I am going to miss the most about Segovia is the relaxed nature of life. The entire community is so kind and easy going, something that the United States is not. Let us also not forget how much I enjoy siesta time! This is a practice that I will be bringing home. At home everything is go, go, go, which can get very exhausting. Spain taught me to take a moment and live in the moment. Before this trip, I was so focused on my future and being perfect; I forget sometimes to breathe and enjoy the moment I am living. Taking time to take a second for myself will be something that I will need in the coming hectic school year. In the end of it all, I am thankful for this opportunity and am ready to take on another great adventure!
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