As my first month comes to an end here in Oviedo, I have already learned so much. Everything is becoming easier dealing with communication along with getting around the city. I have never truly been a city girl, so the entire concept is foreign to me! My Spanish skills have already advanced and I have learned plenty of new words and phrases. I began my classes with the Spaniards at the other campus, which is something none of the other Americans are doing. It is extremely different being the only native English speaker in a class. Taking these other courses has also got me accustomed to using the bus system in the city, which I have now, finally, figured out!
My host mom and I are becoming almost like a team, as she likes to call us! It’s nice to have her help with adjusting here and to help improve my Spanish. She still gets a bit frustrated at times when I cannot understand a certain word she is trying to say, but other than that we communicate well. The food has been absolutely amazing, even being allergic to gluten and dairy. My host mom, Isabel makes me the freshest and healthiest meals every day that I am extremely grateful for. She is an amazing cook and has begun teaching me some meals on nights that I cook with her.
It is finally setting in that this is a once in a lifetime experience. So many students take being in another country for granted, but traveling the world and gaining all these new experiences truly is what defines you as a person. First month done, 4 more exciting ones to come!