Orange trees, olive oil, flamenco and fútbol. These are just few of the aspects that define the southern city of Sevilla, Spain.
For almost six months I will be living abroad in the beautiful capital of Andalucía, where I will spend my time exploring various barrios, bicycling all over town, eating tapas and drinking wine. Hopefully I will end up rediscovering the value of siestas and ultimately living the social-oriented life that the country is centered around.
My name is Elizabeth Byrum, and I am a sophomore studying journalism, international studies and Hispanic studies. As soon as I came to UNC-Chapel Hill, I knew that I would study abroad, but the remaining question was where. Since I have never been to Europe before, I decided a semester in Spain would be a perfect way to do a little bit of exploring, while also improving my Spanish. After spending two incredible weeks in Sevilla, I knew I made the right decision.
So far, my days have been spent learning my way around the city, taking advantage of the amazing rebajas or sales the retail stores have, figuring out the crazy European university registration system and getting to know my wonderful host family! I only have one more week in my introduction class with the UNC crew before I start taking classes at the University. I will be taking three classes at the University of Sevilla and one class at EUSA, where the UNC in Sevilla program is based. For me, one of the biggest differences will be having every class in Spanish — including philosophy and the photography class I’m signed up for! I’m excited to mingle with students from Spain, as well as from all over the rest of Europe. This will push me outside of my comfort zone at first, but I welcome the challenge and the learning experience!
It is still hard to believe I am already two weeks in — I feel like I have been here for months in some ways, but at other times I still feel completely lost. For me, the best part of traveling has been the great learning process it entails. I have learned some things already: lunch is the most important meal, biking is the best way to get around and nearly everywhere is closed on Sunday. Even by the end of my time here, I know I will not have learned everything there is to know about Sevilla. As my appetite for all things Spain continues to grow, I cannot imagine the adventures I will wind up having as an American living the Spanish lifestyle.
Viva Espana!