Living in another country was by far the most rewarding experience of my life. For over three months I studied in Seville, Spain with a program called International Studies Abroad (ISA). I lived with a host family in Triana, a charming neighborhood known for its beautiful ceramic craftsmanship. Everyday, my wonderful roommate Kristin and I would embark on a two mile walk to our university. We’d walk past shops selling flamenco dresses, through a fresh food market, over the Puente de Triana while gazing across the beautiful Guadalquivir River, through the town square, and finally we’d arrive at our university. We’d spend the day learning about the culture of Spain, brushing up on our language skills, listening to Spanish music, and even learning Spanish dances! On the weekends, I’d travel throughout Spain and Portugal and enjoyed every minute of it.
Although I loved the places I visited, my heart was always in Seville because it gave me the opportunity to live like a native. I spent many evenings eating tapas, which are small plates of food closely related to the American “appetizer”. I’d spend my free time roaming the narrow streets of Santa Cruz and visiting family-owned shops selling an array of objects such as fans, jewelry and souvenirs. On a hot day I’d enjoy a cold glass of sangría made with a variety of freshly-squeezed fruits. As a future Spanish teacher, I’d practice the language by going to cafes and speaking with the natives about anything I could think of from the weather to our cultural backgrounds. There, I would try the typical dishes such as tortilla española, paella and arroz con pollo. Around midnight I’d venture out to the discotecas where the nightlife bustled into the early hours of the morning.
Seville was a fairy-tale land. The people were warm and friendly, the atmosphere was calm and relaxing, and every time I turned a corner I saw another beautiful site. Horse-drawn carriages surrounded the Seville cathedral which is known to be the third largest in all of Europe. Having been ruled by the Moors for nearly 800 years, Seville houses a unique and exquisite blend of Moorish and Christian architecture. It is simply breathtaking.
Being in Seville in the spring is an experience in itself. The city bursts into bloom as the aroma of orange blossoms fills the air and the city’s two greatest festivals take place; first Holy Week, known as “Semana Santa,” and second, the spring fair known as “feria.” I attended many of the religious processions during Semana Santa and walked among the natives through the numerous tent-lined streets during feria. Both holidays were like nothing I’d ever experienced before. As the celebrations wound down, it was time for me to return to West Chester. Although I had to leave my new friends, my host family, my professors, and the beauty of Seville behind, I was able to hold onto the wonderful memories that have kept a smile on my face and the photographs that provide an eternal reminder of my unforgettable experience abroad.