Since you been gone, I can breathe for the first time - Kelly Clarkson No but really, I can. Something I definetely do not miss from Spain is all the smoke I inhaled, and blak tar that probably accumulated in my lungs. But now that I'm back I am having spanish withdrawl big time. But first the best thing about being home is Takis...err I mean Family! I really missed having my family bug me 24/7 and it was definetely a struggle since i wasn't able to keep up the communication by long distance becasue of he lack of wifi, and the time difference. To be honest, the next most missed thing were my dogs. I just...who can leave their dog for a minute and not miss them? Impossible, in my opinion. But back to the takis issue. Spain has a lack of anything past the mild range of hotness. Nothing is spicy, the only hot cheetos they have are the knockoff brand of the cheddar jalapeno ones, and their takis are cheese and lime flavored! Ew! Takis were the first food I had when I got back into the states. My aunt forewarned me about this and had even advised me to take a hot sauce abroad. I am glad I didn't though, that way I can taste everyfood authentically but it was something I missed. Now one thing is for sure: American ice cream can't even begin to compete with european gelato. Definetely something I look forward to in my next visit. Being able to speak spanish 24/7 is also something I will not be able to do back in the states, becasue even the native speakers prefer english over spanish. A month long in Spain was the best because I was able to use my spanish everyday, all day. I learned so much about their culutre, and the pragmatics and linguistics of their language. It was amazing to witness ifferent customs play out such as the eating schedule, nightlife, and the love for wine. I definetely won't miss the lack of water fountains, but will miss the casual dinner with a glass of wine. I also have to give a shoutout to my favorite spaniard whom I will miss dearly, Saida. Saida was our mentor for the study abroad program and was there with us through the heat strokes to the chupitos at night. She showed me what it truly means to be a spaniard, and to take part in their culture. She allowed me to walk the streets of Spain in her shoes, and to her patience was astounding despite the bombardment of questions I had about everything. For sure, when I go back I will visit her first. Studying abroad has enriched my awareness of other cultures, and increased my fluency in spanish but most of all showed me a world of friendly strangers. One of my friends, Victoria Estrella quoted, "Nobody is a stranger, just a friend you haven't met yet." And this statement couldn't have been more true. This world is full of people we are bound to meet one day, and we are all striving for happiness. Yet, everyone seems so suspicious, anweary of others as if we are ALL out to get each other. This is not a royal rumble match, everybody for themselves, it is a community. And yes there are some people out to get us, but why judge all for the fault of few? I was able to hear many stories, share lives and be able to be a part of someones smile. Another quick tip about studying abroad: Travel more. Already being in Europe, it is so much easier to traavel more after or before your study abroad. Just book the plane ticket before or after and go somewhere. i was blessed enough t have the opportunity to go to Italy see the Pope, throw a coin at Trevi Fountain, and eat some cuisine pasta. I strongly encourage others to study abroad, and even if you can't study abroad, just travel. Like a wise friend once said, "Just Do It." - Nike
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