Davita Scarlett -- Spanish Culture and Exploration (ESS)

When our plane landed in Madrid to begin our orientation, I still didn't feel like I was in Spain. Everything still seemed unreal to me. However, as soon as we began exploring the city and interacting with Spanish people, I began to feel comfortable. By the end of the day, I had learned so much about Madrid, and had talked to so many, that I felt like I had always been living there. In addition, during the day I had to rely so much on my group, that it felt like we had always been friends.

Meeting my family was definitely the best part of my experience. They didn't treat me like an outsider. They embraced me, and my awkward Spanish, and they were always eager to hear about my life back in New York City. Even though we didn't speak the same language, there were never any barriers between us. I remember telling my group during our first outing that sometimes I just forgot that I was in a different country, and that the people were speaking a different language from the one I normally speak. I was amazed at how comfortable I was in such a different environment. I knew I would have fun, but I never expected to fall in love with Spanish culture. Now that I am back home, I listen to Spanish radio stations and try to make Spanish dishes, because I came so accustomed to certain things that they just come naturally to me now, even though they were not a regular part of my life before. I am extremely happy that I was able to have this experience this summer. Not only did I learn about a new culture, but also, now I am more open and willing to experience new things and places.