I have mixed emotions about being back in the States. When I first landed in Atlanta, it was strange speaking in English. I felt like I was going to get in trouble for not speaking Spanish! I have recently been catching myself speaking “Spain-glish,” when you substitute one english word for a Spanish word on accident haha. Since the majority of Americans are mono-linguistic, they do not like it when you slip up and speak Spanish. The majority of my friends and family make fun of me for it! (but in a loving way of course).
It does not feel like I am staying in the States. It almost feels as if I am visiting my family for the week and then returning to Spain. Maybe this means that I should travel back to Spain soon? I think it does!
When people ask me about Spain, it is as if I have so much to say that I nearly have anything to say at all. It might take a minute to understand. What I mean by this is that I have so much to say about the different events and stories and love that I now have for Spain that I don’t even know where to begin. Also when people ask you about your trip, it’s always the same questions: “how are the beaches?” me- “I don’t know, I was in Madrid. There are no beaches there.” them-“Does anyone speak English?” me-“yes, some do but not as many as you’d think.” them-“Can you speak Spanish?” me-“well it is my minor,” the list could go on and on. However, my only advice for someone who is studying abroad is to expect everything and nothing. I thought that I was going to do all of these goals and certain experiences, but I did not do them all. However, I am not disappointed at all! I experienced new types of adventures that I had never planned to happen, and I loved it! So expect everything because it will be everything that you make it to be. Expect nothing because plans change, and new experiences arrive that are even more incredible than you could imagine!
Views of the palace in Segovia, Spain