As I’m about a month into my semester abroad, I wanted to take some time to reflect. I’m studying in Granada, Spain, and came into the program knowing absolutely no one. It’s an extremely immersive program where I’m living with a host family and all of my classes are in Spanish; so, I have learned quite a bit about myself within my time adjusting to this very new—but very exciting—experience. Here are just a few of my insights into this incredible opportunity:
- You probably won’t ever be fully comfortable
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I always thought that after the hump of adjusting to a brand new culture, I would be comfortable. Though I’m definitely a lot more comfortable now than I was at the beginning of this adventure, I don’t think I’ll ever be fully comfortable. There are so many differences between the Spanish and American cultures; and although I’m aware of them, I don’t think I’ll ever be fully comfortable living in them. This is something I didn’t expect, but have come to accept and see it as a positive thing. Abroad isn’t for comfort; it’s for experiencing new things and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. I am proud of myself for pushing myself.
- I should take advantage of this time to be more independent
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I didn’t realize how dependent I am on my friends’ schedules until coming abroad. At Notre Dame, I’m constantly surrounded by friends and always want to be hanging out with them whether that’s by studying together, going to the gym together or just eating together. Although I try to carve out time for myself, college life is very social and there is little time alone. My experience in Spain has allowed me to completely make my own decisions and spend a lot of time alone. I know that such independence and autonomy is crafting me into a stronger, more self-aware individual.
- Homesickness will happen
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Never did I think that I would miss South Bend, Indiana when studying in Spain. Yet, here I am, missing it. It may just be the comfort and familiar lifestyle that I miss, but I often find myself looking at old photos and missing the time when all of my friends were in one place, having an amazing time and being totally comfortable. It’s another thing that I’ve accepted about being abroad: although I’m incredibly grateful, it’s okay to miss home and comfort.
- I need to be easier on myself
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I’m always putting unnecessary pressure on myself; but abroad, I find it particularly unnecessary. I’m here to grow, learn and enjoy myself; so there’s no need to stress out or be self-critical. This pressure and criticism I put on myself comes from feeling like I’m not doing abroad “right.” There are so many things that I want to do and places I want to see and activities I want to get involved in. All of these things can’t realistically be accomplished in three months. I need to be easier on myself and just be present, enjoying the time I have here without unnecessary criticism and stress.
- Writing down my spending helps
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Spending money abroad deserves an article of its own—one that I’m not at all qualified to write. It has been quite difficult to manage money abroad as I’m constantly traveling, eating out and doing activities to explore the new cultures I am traveling to. I’m incredibly lucky to be able to have this opportunity, as it’s not a possibility for a lot of people. However, I do still need to be smart with how I spend my money and track it as much as I can. Writing down my spending or using apps like Mint have really helped me with being aware of what I’m spending my money on and if I’m going a little overboard. Also, when I know I have to write down my purchases, I find that I think more critically about what I’m spending my money on—which is especially useful abroad with its countless money traps.
- Not knowing anyone coming in is a blessing in disguise
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I came into my abroad program not knowing a single soul. I decided to step out of my comfort zone and do an external program—in other words, outside of Notre Dame’s community. I was quite nervous at first and it was initially difficult. I had flashbacks to freshman year of college where I didn’t have my people and no one really knew me. However, just like any new environment, it takes time to get to know people and find those you mesh well with. I eventually found these people who I am now so grateful to have in my life—especially during this exciting life experience. I would have never found them if I didn’t take a risk and come here alone. It’s also nice having people outside of my usual circle who I can talk to about anything and consequently gain outside perspectives. Coming abroad alone and not knowing anyone was truly a blessing in disguise as it brought more incredible people into my life.
- I can’t feel guilty for resting
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Thankfully, the Spanish culture is very big on down time—also known as siestas. I engage in this rest time most days, but sometimes I find myself feeling guilty about it. I think, “I should be doing something else and exploring this beautiful city I’m in instead of laying in my bed.” While I should use my time here in Spain to explore the amazing city I’m so lucky to currently live in, I also shouldn’t feel guilty about giving my body rest. I’m pushing my brain every day to learn a new language and step out of my comfort zone with a new culture. Though it’s not physical exertion, I still find myself exhausted most days. It was, and still is, hard for me to accept this; but I’m constantly traveling and challenging my brain and exploring new things, so I just need to remind myself that it’s okay that I’m resting. It’s quite necessary in order to get through such an exciting, yet tiresome, semester-long experience and is nothing to feel guilty about. I’m just giving my body some love and care!
My time abroad has already taught me so much and I’m so excited to see how I further develop and grow. Reflections like these continue to make me feel so grateful for this experience and allow me to pause and acknowledge everything I’m learning, in and out of the classroom. There’s still so much to explore and experience that I know will bring me unforgettable memories and very important life lessons—this list of what I’ve learned abroad will definitely not end at seven!