TOCA in Spain High School Study Abroad Program

My experience with TOCA was genuinely transformative, before the program I struggled to speak up. I didn't recognize how much that held me back. TOCA changes people by placing them in an environment based on growth and responsibility. The moment we began preparing for Spain, the program pushed me to step outside my comfort zone, allowing me to be comfortable both as student abroad and as a leader back home. TOCA gives an amazing hands-on education; with our teacher and guide we explored Spanish history, language and daily life, in a fun way that was fun, while challenging us to stay curious and think critically. It was incredible how they guided us through Seville with the utmost enthusiasm and the knowledge to teach us even the smallest details of the country. This program helped me grow socially, through living with classmates, trying amazing new food, and even communicating with the locals, with what I learned in the classroom. TOCA is a gift, it formed a supportive environment while encouraging us to learn more, leaving us important memories and skills to bring home. All in all TOCA has given me one of the most fun and educational experiences in my life.

My experience abroad has not only allowed me to break out of my social comfort zone, but embrace individuality as well. Before I arrived to Spain, I received a focus word on the trip, and that word was Discernment; The ability to judge well. Throughout my trip, I’ve enacted as if I wore a lens of discernment, and I’ve Unintentionally found myself embracing the beauty of individuality, and cultural immersion rather than “judgment”. With this new lens I’ve only flourished by trying out new tasty foods like Paella and Tapas, exploring the calm streets of Sevilla during siesta or vast and loud skies of El Caminito del Rey. Fast forward to the present, my ability of discernment has only strengthened, finding beauty within anyone despite how different they may seem; indulging in this mindset has allowed me to connect with people easier and influence my most recent trip to Seoul, South Korea this summer.

Before immersing myself into the TOCA study abroad program I had no prior experience studying abroad. It was incredible. Studying abroad with TOCA has allowed me to meet new people, experience a new culture and GROW. TOCA's immersion program is exactly how it sounds, immersive. I spent my days in Seville, Spain with a personal homestay family and classes to go to courtesy of Centro MundoLengua. My experience living with a homestay family was different, but awesome as they are the most welcoming, kind, and supportive people you can meet. My family spoke only Spanish so obviously there were some awkward moments, but thats where the magic happens. Day by day you are able to increase and expand your vocabulary in this foreign, yet welcoming place. This is only enhanced by through the entertaining tour guides. My main tour guide Paula was so welcoming and happy to show us around the many attractions and activities in Spain. These attractions were truly breathtaking and to this day I still remember the joy and awe I felt while experiencing them the first time. All of this is topped off with the wonderful teachings of Centro MundoLengua's Juan Alberto. Learning a new language can be daunting and even difficult at times, but learning through Centro MundoLengua and having Jaun Alberto as my teacher made learning Spanish fun, interactive, and easy to digest. Overall I rate TOCA a 10/10 and if you're thinking about studying abroad they are an amazing pick.