What inspired you to travel abroad?
Studying abroad is a unique experience and every student has its own experience. None of them will be the same. My interest in traveling abroad was not just to explore the world, but to study the world. I was blessed enough to have been to Europe before, and my experiences there prior to studying in Spain helped open up my mind to a life there.
Why did you choose Instituto Hemingway?
I chose Instituto Hemingway because it offered a sense of family to my experience. The resources that were available were more beneficial than any others in my opinion. The price was also another pro, as well as the opportunity to meet local people while enjoying the country and having fun.
What was your favorite part about your Spain?
My first weeks in Spain were a roller coaster of emotions. Everyday I was surrounded by new things and new people, there wasn’t a moment to rest. My classes were just the right amount challenging while still being engaging and leaving time for exploring the city and having fun! I got to live in a flat with other study abroad students in a great location right next to a metro stop and multiple grocery stores and coffee shops. The public transportation in Bilbao allows you the freedom to explore the city without worrying about how to get back home, and the endless things to do mean that you will never be bored!
Having fun together in the shelter while hanging out with some cute and adorable cats.
What made your experience abroad extraordinary?
Learning Spanish helped me to understand that it didn’t matter where I lived. Taking the time to learn how others communicate reaffirms that we all share the same needs, regardless of the words or accents we use to speak. I encourage students to become proficient or fluent in another language because it not only opens up professional opportunities, but it demonstrates that you have a curiosity about how other cultures work with genuine authenticity.
My volunteer experience in animal welfare was also a unique and enriching experience. I felt I was doing something remarkable and direct from my heart.
How did the local program staff support you throughout your program?
Local staff supported me through my program because of the resources they provided. They provided a list of trips and adventures to go on with other students. Some of these were trips you would not think to do without the program providing them. Another resource they provided was medical attention and a way for an international to receive medical needs if they needed them.
Did Instituto Hemingway provide specific pre-departure Covid support? If yes, please tell us what kind of support you received.
Yes, it provided information on each city's Covid guidelines so that we were aware of them. During the time I traveled to Spain there were no Covid restrictions and I could go anywhere with no masks or whatsoever. I felt safe at all moments and enjoyed my solo travel experience. Nowadays you can travel anywhere in Europe with no restrictions.
How did Instituto Hemingway help you stay (and feel) safe abroad amidst the ongoing pandemic?
My program offered information on how to stay safe by avoiding certain areas and being able to have a number to call in case there was danger. The tips and advice my program offered benefited me as well as others during our time abroad. Being in a foreign city, you might not know what to expect, so safety must be a priority in everything you do.
Outside on a walk with the dogs from the nearby dog shelter while living in Spain.
What's one thing you wish you would have done differently during your time abroad?
I’ve realized that I have become too wrapped up in attempting to see as much as I possibly can, but I have neglected the museums, attractions, and other cultural experiences that Bilbao has to offer. So, I wish I would have made sure to dedicate time to get to know what makes Bilbao unique.
Describe what a typical day in your life abroad looked like.
First, I would wake up for school, and go on foot to class. Once class was done or if I had a break in between a class, I would try a different restaurant or food than the day before. Then in the afternoons I would go to the animal shelter to help animals there to have a better life and play with them while helping in different duties assigned.
What did you enjoy doing in your free time abroad?
In my free time I enjoyed doing several things. One being, planning my next trip. I always made an effort to travel each weekend. I have made some amazing friends in Spain that I am able to travel with!
What type of accommodation did you have? What did you like best about it?
I had an apartment with two international students. It was next to my school, but there was a metro nearby or a way nearby for transportation. It was also nice to have my own room.
What I liked best about my apartment was that there were no dryers. That might sound weird, but I realized that air drying clothes is so much more beneficial to the environment and your clothes.
The team and I are working on cleaning up the shelter for all the animals.
Now that you're home, how has your time abroad impacted your life?
After some months I did not only learn about the country and its people, but I also learned about myself. I opened up to the world and became more tolerant. And that is something that to this day, I try to improve. It was a life changing experience and I am really happy about my decision to go abroad.
What is one thing every future participant should know about your program before their program begins?
One thing I would say to future participants is to have a plan. Everyday in Bilbao is what you make of it and it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity so make the most of it. You do not want to leave and wish you could have done it differently. You also need to be flexible about how life is different abroad.
Would you recommend Instituto Hemingway to others? Why?
Yes, it offers so much to people. There are so many different experiences for someone to go through. I would say you cannot go wrong with any city, but I will say you must have a plan for your time there. Make sure your program helps you achieve the goals you want to accomplish during your time abroad.
What do you feel the biggest benefit of traveling abroad is?
The biggest benefit of traveling abroad is experiencing different cultures, and having the opportunity to explore the world. There are so many opportunities, you will not be able to capture them all, but with a positive mindset you can achieve a lot. Also, there are so many students studying abroad, and you might just meet friends for life.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Being adaptable to a new place is the most important piece of advice that I’m able to give any students. There will be challenges as well as triumphs, and I encourage all students to take them in stride. Navigating a new place can be stressful, but with an accepting attitude and a willingness to recognize that sometimes when things are slightly awkward, we are given the opportunity to grow as people.
Bilbao was a fantastic place for me to learn more about how to embrace so many different things. Studying abroad grants this opportunity to experiment wisely, and I encourage all students to consider this when thinking about what their time abroad may look like.
