Julia Anastos

What are you up to these days? Have you graduated? Are you working? How did your experience in Barcelona have an impact on your life?

Barcelona has completely changed my life for the better – I was able to learn a lot about myself, and from my experience I will be taking a lot of lessons with me that I will carry for the rest of my life. While I was in Barcelona, I learned a lot about patience and how to better understand and respect others who come from all different walks of life.

If you were to sum up your Barcelona experience in one to two words, what would you say? My Barcelona Experience is…

Life Changing

Explain why you chose those words.

My Barcelona experience really made me change as a person for the better. I’ve been able to see the world differently, and now look at myself in a different light as well. There has been nothing but positive things that came from my time in Barcelona and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity. In looking at myself before and after Barcelona, and I was honestly two different people – so I couldn’t be happier with my decision to study abroad as it absolutely transformed me in such a positive way.

What was your favorite tour, day trip, or cultural activity? Why?

Sitges and the cava tour, because of the amazing weather and beaches – and it was also my first encounter with cava ever.

What was something you were surprised to learn about Barcelona or Spain? Or what aspect of the country or city were you least expecting?

I was definitely surprised by the different cultures within the Spanish culture itself. In the U.S. when someone thinks about Spain we usually think about Spanish speakers, beautiful beaches, and old buildings. However, during my time in Barcelona I was able to see all the different parts of Spain and realize how different they are – from the Basque Country all the way to Andalusia. I was least expecting the strength of identity and culture that the people of Catalunya have.

What is one piece of advice that you have for future students coming to Barcelona?

Be open minded. By doing this you will be able to experienceBarcelona and Spain in an entirely different way. Don’t be afraid to try new things, meet new people and go to new places. Explore as much as possible and don’t stay cooped up in your apartment or house. Learn as much as you can in the time that you have because in the end it is completely worth it. Having an opportunity to live in another city for four months is insane and you should be open to everything that comes your way while you are here.