Learn by Travel

Going to school in another country is quite the experience. When I walk to school here in Seville, I pass by many locals of all ages going to work, school, running errands, etc. My school at home in San Luis Obispo, California, is known to be a vibrant college town filled with college students, whereas when I walk to school in Seville I see people of all ages and passing the center of Seville where I see many tourists. It’s not your average walk to school when you pass by beautiful architecture, monumental parks, the only river port in Spain, and many historical landmarks.

Front of the University of Seville

I pass by this bridge on the way home from class

Studying abroad has been smooth sailing for me. I am taking 3 classes in Spanish at the University of Seville where I get to interact with Seville students and walk around locals every day and am taking my 4^th class at the CEA center which is a 10-minute walk away from the University of Seville. The way my schedule lined up is funny because I go back and forth speaking Spanish and English; one hour I am hearing only Spanish in my class and the next class I am back to learning in English.

Side view of University of Seville; where I walk into every morning for school

Two of my Spanish classes at the University involve reading poems and literature written by Hispanics or Spaniards and the other is an Advanced Spanish grammar class. With these advanced Spanish classes, I have already felt that my Spanish is improving and have gained more knowledge on the culture of Spanish people. I have learned and discovered a lot about the cultural differences and stereotypes between the U.S. and Spain with the class I take at the CEA center.

Outside patio where local students hang out

All my classes are very interesting and engaging; no one is afraid to speak up and share their thoughts because the classes are all less than 20 people. In fact, my favorite class that I am taking at the University of Seville has 7 people. As long as you participate and understand what’s happening in the class, you will sincerely do well. It’s so nice to be able to take these classes where they double count for both my Spanish minor and my GE’s; a win-win situation. Or should I say a win-win-win situation because I am also abroad in Spain!

Triana bridge lit up at night; halfway point from school and home

Daniella S. is the Fall 2016 CEA MOJO in Seville, Spain. She is currently a junior studying Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Administration at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

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