To grasp the words to summarize this whole semester is quite a daunting task. It is weird to talk about going back home when I know that I am not. If you paid attention while reading my other blogs, you may have noticed that I am Costa Rican. I am an international student at a small liberal arts college in Minnesota and the place that I am returning to is sort of home, but not really. It is quite an indescribable feeling, confusing really. I am very excited to return to people that I love and appreciate.

Every time I allow my mind to revisit the state it was in when I was at Oxford, I discover new ways in which I have truly transformed into a better version of myself. There are some feelings and moments I had that I can't quite put into words yet, but some of the other crucial elements of my Oxford journey seem to slip off the tongue with such great ease. One of the main reasons why I studied abroad is to share these moments with others; I am more than happy to keep that promise.

I've had a lot of posts on traveling around Spain and Europe, and this was a really fun part of my study abroad experience! While traveling does come with expenses, I think traveling around Europe is very affordable and easy for small budget college students like myself. As a low-income student, I thought traveling would be impossible, but here are some of my tips that helped me travel with a manageable budget!

Transportation:

Saying goodbye is always difficult, but saying goodbye to Salamanca was especially difficult for me. As I hopped on the last bus ride leaving Salamanca, I realized that this journey was really coming to an end.

I never imagined I would have the opportunity to live in Spain for an entire semester. Living away from home, family, and friends for over 3 months just seemed impossible in the past. However, at the end of my study abroad journey, I realized that a semester is not nearly enough. 

As I wrap up my final week in Siena, I thought I’d share some of my recommendations and favorite spots!

Weeks ago, I was crossing off each second that passed, looking forward to the day I'll be on the plane ride home. I couldn't wait to be embraced by the different elements that I am so used to. Yes, even now I am filled with the anticipation of seeing my family and being in the house for winter break, but I'm also squeezing out the last few drops of wonder from my trip abroad.

Two days ago IES Abroad blogs sent me and other students an email with the link to the holiday video. Even though I had submitted some content, I did not expect to be included—because not everyone’s video would—but I still watched to see everyone’s memories. Suddenly, I see my video and the voiceover saying: “I wish you were there when I saw Messi scoring with the national team of Argentina in the first game after the world cup.”