Paola- Post Spain Reflection

During Spain, my friends and I; who at the beginning I did not even know, made so many memories. I will never forget all of the foods I ate, especially because it was so much. I loved the routine my roommate and I had, especially getting coffee and orange juice from this one shop. Although I didn't like paying Euros every time I spoke in English, this helped me learn to say what I needed to in Spanish; and for that I am so grateful to my Spanish teachers. I learned more in this experience than ever before in my life simply because I was surrounded by Spanish. By the time we got to Dallas, my friend Sarah and I were weirded out by the announcements in English because it didn't feel normal. With learning Spanish, I not only gained knowledge of the imperfect and preterite tense but I also shared an experience with the other girls in my grade that no one could ever replace. I will miss my host mom Augustina and her obsession with a transformation show and cherries, also hearing the words "come más." Augustina was so sweet in the way that she always made us a ton of food and gave us Kinder Eggs and didn't get mad at us when we would slip up. I think that even though Madrid is the Capital of Spain with a lot more people,I would rather live in Salamanca. Salamanca is the perfect place to live because everything is walking distance, the Zara's are cheaper, the food is cheaper, and the people are all friends. Not to mention Salamanca's proximity to Portugal and many Spanish beaches. In Junior year of college, my friends and I want to come back to Salamanca for a year abroad, at least this is what we told ourselves to make it easier to leave. I will miss the beautiful architecture and the story behind every building that just isn't the same in Texas, especially the University of Salamanca and all of the convents. My favorite activity of this trip was the Royal Palace, Prado Museum and kayaking. (tied for first) I am so grateful for this experience and believe I am a better person for it.