To prepare myself for international student teaching, I have first completed student teaching here in Kentucky. For elementary education it is required to complete a primary and intermediate placement. My first placement was in a fourth grade classroom. I absolutely adored these kids. The beginning of the school year in fourth grade is loads of fun! My second placement was in kindergarten. These are some of the sweetest kids! Holiday time in kindergarten is like no other! So much fun. Both of my cooperating teachers were amazing role models and I'm so lucky I got to learn from both of them.
Another way I have prepared myself for this journey is doing research on Barcelona, Spain. I had to figure out how American dollars translate into Euros. When I ordered my euros and money card, 1 american dollar equals 0.82 euros. When I first researched it was 0.87 euros so it has been interesting to watch and see what 1 american dollar equates to in euros and how it changes. As I do not speak Spanish, I found ways to communicate. I downloaded google translate and actually became very familiar with its functions during my student teaching in America as I had two students who only spoke Spanish. I found some articles on what life as a young adult in Barcelona is like and interviewed some friends who have previously visited the city to get recommendations. My biggest concern before leaving is the food in Barcelona. I have found many articles on what to eat there and am excited to try new things as I am a picky eater!