New Experiences In Spain

Submitted by Rita Sweeney on the 2019 winter session study abroad program in Granada, Spain sponsored by the Department of Languages, Literatures & Cultures…

Today marks the end of my first week in Granada, Spain. Before coming on this program, I didn’t have a lot of expectations because I didn’t really know a lot about the culture of Spain; and, I was nervous to go on a program in which I didn’t know anyone and had to stay with a family for a month that I knew nothing about. After adjusting to the time difference and overcoming my jet-lag, I experienced a lot of new things and I have already learned so much. Living with a host family was very awkward at first and I was very scared that I wouldn’t be able to communicate with them, but it helps to live with another student that is in the exact same position as you. I have been able to meet new friends and learn about my host family as well as improve my Spanish. We have had the opportunity to visit many amazing places such as Toledo, Madrid, Cordoba, and local sites in Granada. During the rest of my time here in Spain, I hope to immerse myself in a new culture and learn more of the language from native speakers. I expect to meet and continue to get to know many incredible new people that I can call my friends!

This is the Roman Bridge in Cordoba, Spain. It is over 2,000 years old and used to be the only bridge that crossed over the river flowing under it.
This image was taken in La Mezquita-Catedral in Cordoba. It is one of the many examples of the mix and variety of religion in Spain and well as the cultural history of the Iberian Peninsula. It is full of Arabian and Catholic architecture and art.
Orange trees as well as olive trees cover the streets and countryside of Spain. Orange trees grow in a great quantity here but the oranges are too bitter to eat; the olive industry in Spain is one of the largest in the world.
El Mirador de San Nicolas is a popular lookout site in Granada. At the top of long winding roads, it looks out onto the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the famous Alhambra.