Studying abroad was among one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life! Here are some of my notable summer statistics!
I traveled to six new cities including: the city of love—Paris, France; the cradle of western civilization—Rome, Italy; the world’s smallest country—Vatican City; the red city—Marrakesh, Morocco; the birthplace of flamenco—Seville, Spain; and the capital city of one of Spain’s beautiful islands—Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
I captured more than 4,000 of my memories in photos, making up 30% of my entire photo gallery!
I surpassed 588,766 total steps, setting a personal best of 29,437 steps in one day during my trip to Paris.
I endured 107°F temperature in Seville (which is 42°C for my European readers)!
I visited four of Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces including: Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, Palau Güell, and La Basílica de la Sagrada Familia, the church that has been under construction for more than 140 years.
I celebrated La Nit de Sant Joan, one of Catalonia’s most important festivals, marking the shortest night of the year with fireworks, bonfires, and a night full of joy and tradition.
I explored the Lego Store on Passeig de Gràcia featuring mini replicas of Barcelona’s most prominent landmarks such as Park Güell and La Basílica de la Sagrada Familia.
I spent a day at the Tibidabo Amusement Park, located right next to the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, atop the highest peak of the Serra de Collserola mountain range.
However, studying abroad gave me so much more than just memories; this experience developed me professionally and intellectually. My brilliant Food and Culture professor taught me such a special lesson; food does not just hold nutrients, it holds history. This history is why food is such an important aspect of our identities. When we share our food, we are sharing our culture. As part of my internship, I researched hydrogen energy policy within the European Union and developed policy recommendations to address existing regulatory barriers. This experience closely aligns with my career aspirations, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to gain such meaningful, hands-on experience.
Before I go, I want to share a few pieces of advice that I hope will stick with you.
1) Make sure to bring a portable charger with you on day trips.
2) Travel with other people. They make trips 10x more fun and you won’t have to ask strangers to take pictures of you!
3) The first two weeks are the most important when trying to make friends, so talk to as many people as possible during that time and make plans with the people you vibe with.
4) Always try to negotiate when souvenir shopping.
5) Bring a tote bag when traveling and shopping.
6) Make sure you have either a Visa or Mastercard with no foreign transaction fees. I learned the hard way that Discover is not widely accepted abroad.
I never planned on studying abroad but when I was rejected from the internship I applied for back home, I had to rethink my plans. I knew I wanted to work during the summer and Barcelona SAE offered me the opportunity to work, study, and travel. I am sad my time here is almost over but I am so thankful for all the memories, experiences, knowledge, and friendships I gained along the way. Remember that you only live once so get out of your comfort zone and make the most out of every opportunity!
