This blog post explores my recent trip to Tarragona, Spain, through the IES Abroad program. Though it started with a rocky start due to the extensive rain in the city, we were all eventually able to enjoy the beauty and history the city has to offer. I was amazed at the details and intricacies in the walls I saw everywhere. Small alleys carried stories of all who lived there prior and shared all the moments of their life in that location. Observing the wall of Tarragona built during the Roman times was breathtaking. 

Hola mi gente!

I hope you're ready for another exciting adventure because today I'm taking you to one of Spain's most magical and historic cities: Segovia! Nestled in the heart of the Castilla y León region, this city is an absolute must-see if you’re looking for history, stunning architecture, and that touch of fairy-tale wonder.

Check out my vlog here.

Hola mi gente!

Embarking on a dance journey in a foreign city can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, especially if your coordination skills are as questionable as mine. As part of our orientation with IES Abroad Salamanca, we were introduced to the vibrant world of Salsa y Bachata at EliteFitDance Studio. Nestled in the heart of Salamanca, this studio is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional teaching.

My decision to study abroad is both one that seemed natural based on my area of study (as a literature and language major), as well as something that I didn’t feel a need to justify to myself. As someone who really enjoys experiencing foreign and novel perspectives through literature, art, and film– to the extent that I have arranged my studies to further that goal– study abroad fits right into my niche. It makes sense.

The day has finally come. It's time to leave your hometown to an entirely new place, an entirely new continent. All the work of preparing for the moment, the seemingly endless paperwork you had to fill, has been finished. Plane ticket and visa papers in hand, you said your goodbyes. You packed your bags and hit the road. You are excited, maybe a bit nervous, and perhaps slightly disoriented––all at the same time. Periods of transition are no doubt marked with many feelings, sometimes ones that seem to contradict the other.

Wednesday, August 28: Move-in day!

I’m finally here in Berlin! It’s been a surprisingly chill day, since there is no official programming outside of check-in and move-in. Though I wish I had a chance to meet other students, it has been nice to have some time to unpack and get settled. My room is really nice compared to the college dorms that I’m accustomed to; I have my own bathroom, plenty of shelves, and a well-soundproofed window overlooking the bustling street and elevated railway.