Dear Mom and Dad,
¡Saludos de España! You wouldn't believe all that I have accomplished in such a short time since I arrived here in Spain! As you know, I was quite anxious when I left the U.S., but the ISA directors and my new friends and family have truly made this my new home away from home. The directors are incredible, and have already exposed us to a plethora of Spanish culture, and they're always open for helping with homework, or just talking about concerns or our opinions about our new environment.
My host family is amazing, and I have truly become a member of the family. Seeing Spain from their perspective has given me such insight into Spanish family life, and their culture in general. The food is different, but I really enjoy it, and my Señora always makes an effort to expose us to traditional Spanish meals.
Within the first few weeks, I had met such a variety of people from the U.S. and abroad, and I can easily describe my new friends as the most diverse and interesting of my life! We've enjoyed so many things together, from bullfights and flamenco shows, to Spanish movie festivals and poetry readings at a nearby café. I can tell you that I have really taken advantage of the European culture and Spanish state of mind so far, including my favorite part of the day - siesta time!
As you know, I was worried about communicating daily in Spanish, and making friends with Spaniards, but with the continual conversation with my host family along with challenging and intense grammar classes, my language skills have improved tremendously, and I don't hesitate to form friendships with Spaniard students that I meet. Our teachers are patient, yet they force us work diligently, and always try to connect what we learn in the classroom with what we encounter on the street.
My favorite part of the ISA program has been the weekend excursions. Besides the bonding time it provides for the ISA group, we get the opportunity to see various parts of Spain that I probably wouldn't have experienced otherwise. You couldn't imagine how diverse the terrain, food, and people are from one region to another! We've traveled horseback through snowy mountain ranges, seen world renowned museums, and eaten tasty paella and tapas many times!
Honestly, the most valuable part of this journey has been what I have learned about myself and the world that surrounds me. As the world has become somewhat smaller, my views about it have expanded. By experiencing a new and unique culture, I have realized that the unknown isn't necessarily inferior, it's simply different, and many times the unknown can prove to be quite an adventure. This has been the adventure of my life, and I know that I will be reaping its benefits for many years to come.
Miss you! Sally |
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