Adiós España!
Wow, this semester abroad is finally coming to a close. I feel so blessed to have had this experience. Madrid has really become my home 🙂 As I reflect on my time here, there are things I will miss, things I am proud of, things I would do differently, many things I am grateful for, and most of all, so many different ways that I have seen God’s hand in this experience.
I feel incredibly blessed to have been immersed in the rich and vibrant Spanish culture during my time in Madrid. Every day was a new adventure, from savoring traditional dishes like paella to engaging in meaningful conversations with locals such as my roommates. This immersive experience allowed me to deeply understand and appreciate the nuances of Spanish life, from its historical traditions to its contemporary expressions. Studying here has been amazing, broadening my perspective and advancing my language skills beyond what I imagined. I am truly grateful for the unforgettable experiences and the invaluable knowledge I’ve gained from this beautiful country.
Beyond the beautiful experiences I have gained, I would approach a few things differently if given another chance. For instance, I wish I had made a greater effort to get to know my roommates earlier. At the beginning of the semester, I felt intimidated by their exclusive use of Spanish. Over the past several weeks, I have formed a stronger connection with them and now realize how much I will miss them. It would have been wonderful to be close to them throughout the entire semester, but I am still grateful for the bond we share now. Another aspect I would change is my approach to journaling. Although I am not typically inclined towards journaling, I know I will appreciate looking back on these memories. Sometimes I fell behind by a week or two, making it difficult to catch up. However, I am still proud of my commitment to keeping a journal for the first time, consistently documenting my experiences even if I occasionally fell behind.
Another aspect of this experience that I am particularly proud of is consistently maintaining my personal devotions. I have written about this in previous blogs, sharing how beneficial it has been for my spiritual growth. This habit has become an integral part of my daily routine, and I look forward to continuing it when I return home in just one week. Additionally, I take pride in navigating the emotional challenges throughout this study abroad experience. Being away from home, family, and friends at MLC was significantly out of my comfort zone. Before leaving for Madrid, I anticipated a rollercoaster of emotions, expecting extreme highs and lows due to homesickness or missing the familiar comforts of the United States. However, I am grateful to have experienced consistent contentment and joy. Despite occasional moments of missing loved ones, I never felt overwhelmed by the distance. This inner peace and resilience are gifts from God, for which I am deeply thankful. His strength enabled me to embrace each moment and find happiness in every circumstance, making this semester an incredibly fulfilling experience.
Throughout my semester in Madrid, God’s hand has been remarkably evident in my travels, keeping me safe, providing everything I need, and blessing me immensely. Each trip I undertook was met with His protection, ensuring my well-being and allowing me to explore the beauty and richness of Spain and other countries without fear. His provision was constant, from the practical necessities like accommodation and sustenance to the emotional and spiritual support that sustained me during moments of homesickness and uncertainty. I have been blessed with opportunities to grow, learn, and connect with incredible people, all of which have deepened my faith and appreciation for His unwavering presence and care in my life.
During my time in Madrid, I have been inspired by numerous aspects of Spanish culture that I am excited to incorporate into my life back home in Minnesota. The emphasis on a slower, more deliberate pace of life has taught me the value of enjoying each moment, something I plan to embrace more fully. The vibrant social scene, with its focus on communal meals and lively conversations, has shown me the importance of nurturing relationships and making time for friends and family. The diverse culinary experiences sparked my passion for trying new recipes and incorporating more Spanish flavors into my cooking. I have also learned to navigate new environments with greater confidence and adaptability, skills that will undoubtedly benefit me in various aspects of my life. Overall, my experiences abroad have widened my perspective and will continue to influence my daily routines and interactions back home.
If any of you are considering studying abroad, here is a little advice that I have for you 🙂 Fully embrace every moment and opportunity that comes your way. Step out of your comfort zone and immerse yourself in the culture, even if it initially feels intimidating. Make an effort to connect with locals and fellow students who may be in your program—it’s through these relationships that you will gain the most rewarding experiences, especially if they are locals from the country that you choose to study in. Keep a journal to document your journey; you’ll appreciate having a detailed record of your memories! Stay organized and proactive with your studies, but also allow yourself the freedom to explore and travel the world since this is the perfect opportunity to do it. Lastly, trust in God and remain open to growth because this experience will challenge and change you in many ways. You will learn so much about yourself! Basically, if you are thinking of studying abroad, DO IT! You won’t regret it 🙂