“I didn’t expect to find so much comfort in this city…I love how the city is so big and you’re never done exploring…but at the same time it’s not overwhelming.” I wrote that random thought on April 4, 2025, while sitting on a bench during my lunch break, and I believe it perfectly captures my study abroad experience. There was excitement, there was serenity, and there were unexpected discoveries, both about myself and the world. 

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In the spring of 2025, I had the opportunity to study and intern abroad in the beautiful city of Barcelona, Spain. I took three courses: Advanced Conversational Spanish, Spanish Civilization and Culture, and a Global Internship Course. In addition, I spent twenty hours each week interning at Time Out Barcelona as a Business Management intern, reporting directly to the Director of Digital Operations for Spain and France. Outside of academics and work, I immersed myself in Barcelona's culture, traveled throughout Europe, and met people from all over the world. It was truly the best four months of my life so far. 

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Before going abroad, my primary goals were to improve my Spanish-speaking skills, travel beyond Barcelona, and gain a better understanding of Spanish business culture. While I did accomplish these goals, they evolved as I settled into my temporary home. I became more focused on developing cultural competence, improving my communication style, and building adaptability and confidence. For example, I struggled to practice my Spanish because of the unfamiliar accent and speed of conversation. I knew I was going to make many mistakes, but accepting that reality was difficult at first. Fortunately, my internship manager was extremely patient and supportive, which allowed me to gain confidence and become more comfortable speaking. I also realized how important it was to be okay with the “unknown.” There were many moments when I was navigating a new neighborhood or situation and simply had to go with the flow, which is something I had struggled with before. Through these experiences, I gained a level of self-trust and confidence that I had not previously had, and I now feel much more capable of handling unfamiliar challenges. 

 

Before arriving in Barcelona, I made a conscious effort to research the culture in order to minimize any potential culture shock. This preparation helped make my transition much smoother. Once there, I quickly noticed cultural differences in communication style, attitudes toward time, and the overall collectivist nature of society. Communication felt less direct than in the United States, and the workplace environment was more relaxed while still remaining productive. Attitudes toward time were also different. Dinner typically took place between nine and ten at night, my workday often didn’t begin until ten in the morning, and lunch breaks were usually around two in the afternoon. Although these schedules were later than what I was used to, I adapted more easily than I expected. 

 

My favorite cultural difference, however, was the emphasis on living life. The work-life balance in Barcelona went beyond simply working fewer hours. It reflected a broader cultural value placed on relationships, community, and well-being. Despite being a large, international city, Barcelona maintained a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. At work, we regularly took breaks to eat snacks and talk, strengthening relationships with one another. I was encouraged to stop working when the day ended and to continue tasks the next day, rather than rushing. There was also a greater level of physical closeness, which symbolized the strong sense of community. I will never forget being greeted with two kisses on my cheeks, which I didn’t expect at first! Compared to the United States, where life often revolves around structure, schedules, and independence, Barcelona emphasized connection, presence, and shared time. 

 

My study abroad experience also greatly enriched my academic life. I practiced Spanish daily, whether in class, at my internship, or at a local café. Being immersed in the language allowed my skills to improve far more naturally than in a traditional classroom setting. Participating in a third-party program also introduced me to students from across the United States, allowing me to hear diverse perspectives and learn from others experiences. Additionally, I was taught by incredibly kind and insightful women who genuinely cared about my growth, not only as a student but also as a culturally aware individual. 

 

One of my most memorable experiences was taking a flamenco class as part of my Spanish Civilization course. Learning directly from a Sevillian flamenco dancer and experiencing such an integral aspect of Spanish culture firsthand was beautiful. Flamenco is passionate and expressive, and I loved seeing those qualities reflected through her teaching. Similarly, I learned a great deal about Catalan culture from my internship manager, who was born and raised in Barcelona. Listening to his stories and perspectives, shaped by both his local roots and international experiences, was incredibly impactful. One simple yet memorable moment was when he introduced me to fuet during a lunch break, which then became my favorite Catalan food. However, many of my most meaningful experiences came from observation. There were many moments when I found myself sitting on a bench and taking in everyday life. Even while traveling outside of Barcelona, I was able to witness and appreciate different ways of living. 

 

Growing up, I watched my mom travel the world for work and was always inspired by the places she described. I knew from a young age that I wanted to study abroad and explore beyond my own culture. During this experience, I traveled to thirteen cities across seven countries. While traveling had always been a passion of mine, living abroad had a deeper and more unexpected impact. It changed the way I view the world, and even my hometown. Coming from a small town in North Carolina, I always knew there was more out there, but experiencing it firsthand was transformative. Seeing how productivity and relaxation can coexist in the workplace and witnessing the strength and positivity that come from a strong sense of community were incredibly inspiring. This experience is one I will reflect on for the rest of my life, and it has only deepened my desire to continue exploring the world.