España Escapades: A Journey of Goals and Growth Abroad
I’m Sarah Hoffe, a junior on the teacher track at Martin Luther College. I’m a Spanish major, so naturally, that is a beautiful excuse to travel the world to learn more about the Spanish language and culture. I am from Nodine, MN, where I have lived my whole life. So, I am excited to branch out and explore the world finally!
As the anticipation for my upcoming study abroad journey to Spain builds, I find myself reflecting on the goals and expectations I have set for myself, the program, and the experiences that lie ahead. Embarking on this adventure is a mix of excitement and nervousness, but I am confident that the challenges will pave the way for personal growth and unforgettable memories.
Expectations for Myself: Embracing Change and Adaptability
I anticipate that living in a new country, immersed in a different culture and language, will be a transformative experience. I look forward to becoming more comfortable with change and developing adaptability to navigate unfamiliar situations. My primary concern is grappling with homesickness as I learn to become more comfortable with change. The thought of being away from the familiar faces and comforts of home for an extended period is daunting. However, I recognize this as an opportunity for personal growth and resilience-building. This experience allows me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the unknown with open arms. I also expect that studying abroad will cultivate respect for other cultures. Being open to diverse perspectives is a priority for me. I pray this experience will broaden my understanding of the world, fostering cultural sensitivity and appreciation. I hope to return home with a more global mindset, enriched by connections with people from various backgrounds.
Expectations for the Program: Pushing Comfort Zones and Appreciating the Present
I believe the program’s design will challenge me to step out of my comfort zone as I am encouraged and required to use Spanish in many situations in and outside of school. Whether navigating new cities or interacting with locals in Spanish, I anticipate moments of discomfort that will ultimately contribute to personal and academic growth. Another of my expectations is that this program will teach me to appreciate the things I may take for granted in the United States, many of which I am not aware of yet since I won’t know what I’m missing here until I am abroad. Living abroad provides a unique perspective on life, and I hope to gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and uniqueness of different cultures.
Goals for the Program: Improved Spanish Proficiency and Travel
A primary goal for this experience is to enhance my Spanish language skills. I often find myself being concerned that my language skills may not improve as significantly as I hope. Overcoming language barriers is integral to fully immersing myself in the culture, and the fear of stagnation in this aspect lingers in my mind. I aim to increase my comfort level when communicating with native speakers and gain the confidence to express myself effectively in Spanish. Another goal is to travel to a different country on my own. The prospect of navigating a foreign land independently both excites and challenges me. I believe this experience will not only boost my confidence but also encourage me to travel more often. Solo travel is not the highest priority for me; however, I expect I will love traveling with my friends and experiencing new things with other people (old friends and new ones:).
Greatest Challenge:
Undoubtedly, my greatest challenge will be navigating the distance from the people I hold dear. However, I acknowledge that this separation, though difficult, offers a unique opportunity for personal and emotional growth. The support of loved ones will remain a source of strength as I embark on this incredible and exciting adventure.
As the departure date approaches, I look forward to the personal development and all the discoveries that studying abroad in Spain promises. Through embracing change, pushing boundaries, and fostering cultural understanding, I anticipate a journey that will shape not only my academic pursuits but also my perspective on life. Here’s to the unknown and the growth that awaits on the picturesque streets of Spain!