anticipación a la llegada: anticipation to arrival

I eagerly await to challenge nearly every aspect of life as I emerge into an entirely new culture in Barcelona, Spain for the fall semester of 2021. Reflecting on the journey thus far, there has already been immense personal growth, which I hope to see continue abroad. More or less, many of my problems circle back to the seemingly endless list of combinations of my names can make but transparently, my hesitancy to embrace full independence too. Mainly, obtaining a passport with ample time to apply and obtain a visa, looked increasingly dim at the beginning of this process. However,*cue miracle number one,*a continual shoutout to my congressional representative, Anna Eshoo for working with me and my persistent emails to obtain my passport in time! As for my visa, I ultimately waited until just five days before my departure to show up, appointment-less, to the office trying my best to mask my nervous shakes. In the end, as everyone prayed, everything worked out just in time. The stress and bureaucracy ultimately humbled and grew me into a more patient yet tenacious person.

I look forward to developing a new daily routine including everything from wearing real clothes (no athleisure in Spain) to living in a place with night life past 20:00. I am overjoyed to be able to finally allow my imagination to bathe in life-long dreams of sitting at a European cafe, people watching, while sipping a cortado and listening to the city-beach bustle of Barcelona. Another aspect of life I look forward to includes the good company and connections I hope to have with my roommates, classmates, and possibly other locals in my neighborhood of Gracia. Lastly, I promise to not forget the studying part of study abroad! I must mention the fascinating classes I am enrolled in for the semester which will support and deepen my understanding of the Spanish culture, these include; "Culture of food and wine," "Intermediate Spanish," "Spanish Art," "Sports Marketing," and "Spanish Culture and Civilization."

I am certain the sheer number of experiences, changes, and lessons I encounter over the next four months surpasses any comparable amount over my lifetime. At times I expect to feel overwhelmed and unprepared, but I hope I can remain grounded in the countless gifts I've been given to help me find my way. Thank you to my family and friends for their constant positivity and excitement on my behalf. My gratitude extends deeply to the resources and loved ones who continually remind me they unconditionally support me. Go forth and find every small and large joy, waiting around the corner of your new home. Here's to living in a city. Here's to being 20. Here's to figuring out public transportation for the first time!