Dana Wilson -- Language Immersion and Catalonian Adventure (ESLD)

My name is Dana Wilson and as a first time Experimenter, I would like to thank you for the wonderful experience you gave me this summer.

This summer, I participated in one of your programs in southern Spain. Without a doubt, I can say it was the most enriching and cultural five weeks of my life. Your program's perfect mixture of letting the student observe the country and live like one of its occupants, gave me the once in a lifetime opportunity to really say that I've explored Spain. I've been able to visit Madrid and Barcelona, as have many other tourists, but I can also say that I got to live with a Spanish family- eat with them, talk to them, and feel like a part of them. I've had to catch the bus in the morning, go pick up something at the grocery store, or get ice cream with my host sister and her friends before we hung out in a royal garden- things that the average Spaniard does every day.

I've also learned about the history and culture not just by looking at old monuments, but through experience. For example, going to a flamenco show that was kept alive through family tradition, or exploring an ancient Moorish castle. As a result of going deeper than the surface, I really came out of this journey with an education and admiration of Spain and its customs.

Moreover, I've made amazing friends with both American and Spanish people. Within the program, there was such a unique blend of students like myself, and supportive group leaders who were always there to help. I can't fail to mention my fantastic host family, which welcomed me with open arms and within a matter of a week made a big foreign city full of strangers feel like my home. They showed a lot patience, teaching me about their way of life and showing interest in mine at home. I formed a great bond with them and have kept in touch with them since I have returned.

I would have never imagined myself hiking in the Pyrenees, walking through the Olympic village, or having a picnic on a thousand year old palace ground. I've learned to open my mind towards other cultures and to be more willing and patient with new things. I've also thought a lot of returning to live in Spain for a period of time in the future. Mainly, this program has given me so much more than just something to do during the summer, but great memories in the past and the desire to create new ones. I hope that you will help other to experience this gift and ke