The Hornet caught up with Diana Gonzalez, business major who shared tales of her adventures from abroad.
The Hornet: How long have you been in Spain?
Diana Gonzalez: I’ve been living in Spain for over a month already. Time has gone by so fast!
TH: What has the overall experience been like juggling classes and sightseeing?
DG: This has to be one of the most challenging parts about studying abroad. Managing my time with schoolwork and traveling has been difficult but manageable. While traveling, I’ve found time during my flights or while waiting to get some homework done.
TH: Have you made any new friends on the trip?
DG: Yes! I have met some amazing people during this trip, which have made this experience that much better. I’ve gotten close to a group of girls from this program and we help each other with everything. When being so far from home having a close group of friends is so helpful. I’m glad I have these girls to rely on.
TH: Where are you staying?
DG: I’m staying at the university residency. It has been a good experience living here but becomes hard with all the distractions. However, It can be helpful when you have any questions since your dorm mates are also the people you are taking classes with. Living with my classmates have brought us closer and it makes forming study groups much easier.
TH: What has this experience taught you the most?
DG: This experience has taught me to be independent and has shown me that there is so much to explore and see. I have learned that just because people do things differently doesn’t mean it’s wrong or weird. Living in a different culture has taught me to be open to new things and new skills. I’ll be going back home with a new perspective on the world.
TH: Have you picked up the language?
DG: I understood it for the most part but the way they speak Spanish in Seville is different. Learning this new dialect has definitely bettered my Spanish speaking skills.
TH: Which landmark/region has stood out to you the most?
DG: It’s so hard to choose just one place because everywhere I’ve been to has its own characteristic that I’ve loved. Getting to know Spain and the beautiful city of Seville has to be my favorite part of the trip. Spain as a whole has been an amazing place to live in and a wonderful place to explore. There is so much to see and experience here, I don’t want to go back home.
TH: What was your Spring Break like?
DG: For spring break in Europe there are endless sights to see. I decided to spend my spring break in Paris. I got to see all the beautiful attractions Paris had to offer. My favorite part of the trip was going to the top of the Eiffel Tower and seeing the view of the city from up there. I’ve also climbed many towers of buildings with no elevators but getting to the top and taking in the view is worth every step.
TH: Any advice to those wanting to study abroad?
DG: For anyone who is debating on studying abroad or would like to, my advice is to just do it. It’s an experience of a lifetime that you will cherish for the rest of your life. The cost could get in the way of the final decision but there are so many ways to get funds. At the end, you will not regret it.
The next study abroad trip is scheduled in Rome, Italy for the Spring 2015 semester. For more information go to www.studyabroad.fullcoll.edu.