Barcelona, my beloved!

Oh, how I can’t wait to spend time in the beautiful city full of culture and life! But first…I have to prepare. 

The idea of planning a trip to a different continent all by yourself with only a couple informational sessions and websites to rely on is extremely daunting, but with the right resources it’s extremely possible. Speaking from the perspective of a first-generation low-income student with very little parental support in this process, much of my planning is guided by the IES Abroad support team and fellow classmates who have done this program in the past. 

The dream of wandering the vibrant streets of Barcelona, soaking in the Gaudí architecture, and maybe even mastering a few Catalan phrases is inching closer to reality! As the acceptance letter for the IES Abroad program sits proudly on my desk, the excitement is palpable. But beyond the initial thrill, a crucial phase has begun: the preparation. It’s a multifaceted process, and I’m diving in headfirst to ensure a smooth and enriching experience.

Financial planning has been a significant focus for me. Studying abroad is an investment, and I’m committed to managing my resources wisely. I’ve been actively pursuing various funding avenues. Applications for numerous external scholarships are in progress, each one a potential boost to my budget. I’ve also explored and applied for financial aid offered through my home university and specific scholarships provided by IES Abroad. 

Furthermore, I’ve taken personal responsibility for building a financial cushion. A dedicated savings account has been steadily growing, fueled by mindful spending habits over the past few months. Every decision to eat in instead of ordering out, or to opt for a free activity over a paid one, feels like a step closer to those tapas and paella experiences in Barcelona. I’ve also put in many more hours at work, found a virtual internship with a nice stipend, and begun applying to virtual jobs to ensure that I never go without what I need in Spain. Creating a realistic budget for my time abroad, factoring in accommodation, food, transportation, and of course, a little room for spontaneous adventures, is an ongoing process.

But studying abroad isn’t just about logistics and finances; it’s about immersing oneself in a new culture and academic environment. This is where the research aspect comes into play, and it’s been incredibly engaging. I’ve devoured articles and blog posts about Barcelona, from its rich history and artistic heritage to its contemporary social scene. I’ve virtually wandered through the Gothic Quarter on Google Maps, pinpointed potential local markets to explore, and even started planning trips to neighboring countries.

My academic preparation is equally important. I’ve carefully reviewed the course offerings at the IES Abroad center in Barcelona, selecting classes that align with my academic goals while also offering a unique perspective on Spanish culture and society. I’ve even started reading some introductory materials related to my chosen courses to get a head start and make the most of my time in the classroom.

Preparing to study abroad is a marathon, not a sprint. There are moments of excitement, a few moments of mild panic, but overall, a strong sense of anticipation. Knowing that I’m taking proactive steps in terms of documentation, finances, and research gives me confidence that I’ll be well-equipped to embrace all that Barcelona has to offer. The countdown has begun, and I can’t wait to share my experiences from this incredible chapter! ¡Hasta luego!