My time in Spain was overall the most fulfilling and rewarding experience of my life, but it also came with extremely challenging difficulties including the language barrier and some bureaucracy issues. I had always wanted to learn a third language, so I thought: what better way to achieve this than by studying abroad for a few months? First, finding a living arrangement proved to be more complicated than expected, but I eventually found a residence unaffiliated with the University of Salamanca in the heart of the city. Although I am glad that I ultimately had my privacy, I wish I had known about other opportunities such as subletting with other exchange students because I think that it would have enriched my experience. As a psychology student it was extremely interesting to discover a different way of interpreting and studying issues related to mental health and treatment techniques. Being able to bring back to Canada everything that I have learned has truly enriched my undergrad education and my future goals as a psychologist.
Fun fact: the University of Salamanca was founded in 1134, which makes it the third oldest university in the world! Salamanca is full of history and buildings each more beautiful than the next. I now understand a little more why the Spaniards are known for their relaxation: there is something to admire at every street corner. As a student, most cultural visits were either free or at a reduced rate, which means I had access to beautiful views and sites for only a few euros. Although there was plenty to do in Salamanca, I also had the opportunity to travel across Spain and fully immerse myself in the culture. The Spaniards are truly friendly and welcoming people, I felt welcomed wherever I was. One of the reasons why I chose Spain is because it has a great balance between city life and nature. I was able to hike mountains by the Portugal border one day and enjoy a graffiti tour in Barcelona another. Eating tapas at sunset in Seville while watching a street show of Flamenco with local friends feels like a dream and I cannot believe I was fortunate enough to live it!
While traveling and making new friends helped me gain a sense of belonging, I could not avoid the hours of studying needed to bring myself to a sufficient level of Spanish necessary to do well in my classes. After many failed quizzes and visits to my professors’ offices, I can honestly say that seeing my evolution throughout the weeks was one of the best parts of my exchange. This experience taught me perseverance, resilience, self-compassion, but most importantly self-advocacy. My time in Spain was not perfect, and it certainly was not always easy, but I would not change anything because I am now a better person for it.
