Allow me to act as a tour guide in this next post. As I’ve gotten used to living in Rabat, I have also been learning how to get around the city sans Google Maps, something I consider quite the accomplishment.

I think it’s time I address one of the more serious topics of studying abroad here in Spain: diversity. I am very happy to report that, so far, my experience as a person of color in Spain has been pretty great. Seriously. The people here are incredibly kind and welcoming, albeit a bit reserved when you first approach them. The greatest, most refreshing part of studying here has been being treated like any other person. Let me explain.

Hola dear reader(s),

My psychology class recently talked about American exceptionalism and what it means to be an American studying abroad. I had never really thought about these topics as someone who has lived only in the U.S., being surrounded by Americans her whole life. Coming to Barcelona, I also had not thought about them as I had been busy trying to settle into life here. However, during my first weekend traveling, they came across my mind a lot.

            It’s been a few incredible weeks here on San Cristóbal, and I’ve already come across some really bizarre species that you wouldn’t find back home. Everything from the Galápagos Sea Lions, Marine Iguanas, Galápagos Giant Tortoises, Galápagos Green Turtles and other marine life, to the abundance of sea birds are practically right on our doorstep here. Amazingly, the Galápagos are home to one of the highest levels of species endemism in the entire world.

Last weekend, my parents visited me in France! The good thing about only having class Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday is that every weekend is a long weekend.

            I thought I was decent at Spanish. I thought I could hold my own in a Spanish-speaking city with no problem. I thought four years of Spanish class would have at least prepared me for that. I thought wrong.

So it’s been pretty much exactly a month since I have arrived in Nantes and I can’t believe how fast time is flying by. It’s crazy to think that a month ago I was packing my bags and getting ready for an experience of a lifetime and now I am actually here and living out that experience. Everyday has been a new adventure and a new opportunity to learn the language and the culture. While some days are a bit more challenging than others I feel like I’m making good progress and believe that I have come a long way from where I began.

So yesterday was my twenty-first birthday, and the only way that it could have gone better would have been if I had gotten a puppy with a big, red bow on its head (Christmas present, anyone?) My day began just like any other Tuesday: rushing out of the house, heading to my Italian class, and scarfing down a cappucino and croissant (thanks, Sarah!). After class was over, my teacher, Roberta, pulled me out of my seat and walked me into the main room of IES Abroad, where I saw all of my friends, my host parents, and a cake!