My first week in Spain has been quite the experience. After over two years of planning, my time to study abroad in Spain has finally come. The days leading up to leaving were stressful, but exciting. From last minute shopping to packing to crying, it felt like a whirlwind of emotions. I left the United States on September 16th, starting my adventure by flying from Las Vegas, NV to Los Angeles, CA. From LA, I flew to Madrid. The 12 hour flight was long, tiring, and overall emotional. I was so excited to finally be on my way to Spain. In Madrid, I met up with the other students studying abroad in my program. We all took a flight to Seville, Spain, the location of not only our orientation, but also where we will all be living for the next year of our life.
Orientation was so much fun. Not only being surrounded by like minded people excited to be in Spain, but the freedom we had to roam the city, go out late, and explore by ourselves was enjoyable. Some memories from these few days will stay in the journal pages… at least for now. Others like going out for tapas and running through the plaza at night are open for reminiscing.
During orientation we did a walking tour of the city, lots of shopping, and getting to know each other.
After three days of orientation, it was time to meet our host families. Everybody was on edge. Before meeting my family I had to say goodbye to my orientation friends…. that was one of the hardest parts. Luckily for me, my family was super welcoming and kind. I was clearly nervous, but nonetheless they made me feel loved.
My family and I drove 25 minutes to our pueblo, Guillena. After barely dropping my bags, I was off to meet my host sister Marta’s friends. We walked around Guillena, passing by each friend’s house. Even though I was exhausted and just wanted to fall asleep, Marta made sure I met everyone.
This first night, I slept for at least 12 hours, ate, and fell back asleep. Needless to say I needed some sleep.
The Spanish government hasn’t finished my school paperwork yet, so unlike everyone else, I’m not allowed to go to school yet. So, I took the bus into the city everyday this week for ceramic painting, cooking and spanish classes. I went with Brooke, Flynn, and Aidan this week because they were also waiting on their papers.
[Update: I am now in school two weeks later!]
We had such a fun time in the city, but my lack of sleep and busy days has finally caught up to me. It’s finally the weekend and I need sleep.
♡ Em
