One month from now I will be in Oviedo, Spain for my semester abroad experience. Studying abroad and learning Spanish has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember and to think that it will soon be a reality is unbelievably exciting and nerve-racking all at the same time.
When I bought my flight, my mom starting tearing up just thinking about having to say goodbye to me in the airport. I ended up buying a slightly more expensive flight to put her mind at ease with the number of stops I would be making along the way. It’s not like this is the first time I will be away for an extended period of time or even going out of the country. I go to college in a different state, have been to Thailand, Costa Rica, Guatemala. But this time is different. This time I will be living abroad, not just visiting. This time I will be on my own, facing new challenges and having incredible adventures. This time is for me.
Yesterday I was assigned my host family and I was a little panicky. What if they don’t like me? Or worse, what if I am disrespectful in some way? I calmed down after I remembered that these families have been hosting international students for years and are familiar with the cultural differences. I am sure the first few weeks may be a hard adjustment, but I am confident that it will be all worth it in the end.
I have no idea what to expect and for someone like me that is a terrifying feeling, but I am so excited! I am going to learn Spanish. I am going to eat amazing foods and see amazing sights. I am going to meet new people with different values and opinions and (hopefully) make lasting friendships. Spain, here I come!