When I went to the Galapagos Islands, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was thinking it’d be a little like my trip to the Amazon rainforest three weeks before, where my group and I were living in small wooden structures with limited access to electricity. Our free time was largely spent in nature; we went for hikes, swam in the nearby river (a tributary to the Amazon river), and climbed up to the canopy, where we could see the entire forest laid out below us. I was expecting my time in the Galapagos to be similar.

Milan offers marvelous opportunities for students of business or global affairs; since Milan is one of Europe’s  largest cosmopolitan hubs, it is a prime location for these disciplines.  But living in Milan as a musician has felt almost otherworldly.  As a student of classical music, I have been given opportunities to hone my art here in Milan that I could only dream of receiving in other places.

As long as I can remember, I have never wanted to look like a tourist.  In the past I have been embarrassed to be seen going to important monuments or museums, though I deeply wanted to see them.  But a large part of me wants, more than that, to blend in with my surroundings.  I yearn to be spoken to in the language of the country I’m in, even if I don’t speak that language, because I want to pass the test of looking like a local.

Wow, today must’ve been the last dinner that started at 9 in the evening! Honestly, who came up with the concept for the restaurants to open so late?? First of all, I am usually starving by the time my food arrives, and second of all, what has happened to the “don’t eat after six” rule? Of course, I am just pretending to be mad. I will miss those late dinners. So Spanish, so laid-back, no rush, 500 tapas, drinks, fresh bread with every meal... But that’s not even the point. I am leaving Barcelona in a day! 

¡Buenas amigos! In a few days, I’ll be leaving Granada and flying back home to California. I’ve been experiencing a mix of bittersweet emotions: I’m so excited to be coming home to my family and friends, but so sad to be leaving this amazing city and the people that I’ve called home for these past months. More than anything, I feel an immense gratitude to have had this opportunity to grow, learn, and explore in a city as incredible as Granada.

In initially considering studying abroad, I was drawn to the semester-long programs as compared to the two week or month-long programs my school offered.  I loved the idea of getting a more in-depth look into a culture and a worldview.  In preparing for four months away from home, however, I was constantly weighing the pros and cons of the upcoming experience.

Could I find my way in a new area with new people, some who did not even speak English?  Was I actually cut out for this?  

This album is very special to me because it is a compilation of photos throughout our entire semester in Madrid. Whenever I can, I like to carry around a separate little point-and-shoot Olympus film camera, taking it out to bars and restaurants or anywhere I might need a flash.

After a few days of delays, protests, a few too many alfajores (amazing argentine pastries, see above...Cachafaz is my favorite brand), 5-10 Choripan sandwiches (my favorite Argentine lunch) countless emotional goodbyes, and a 14 hour flight, I'm back home.

My last week is drawing near. After four months of Ups and Downs, awkward icebreakers which led to incredible friendships, and unforgettable nights, I have a week left here in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Here are some tips on how to make the most out of your last week.

Lisa Maria Montano Ortiz (Pictured on the right)