Sevilla, Spain
From January to May 2023, I had the honor of studying and interning in the south of Spain, where I got to observe the meshed histories of the world's three major religions, immerse myself in new cultures, and experience the world in a way I never had before. This page reflects on my observations, lessons, skills, and adventures that I gained from my time abroad. Free free to scroll through my collections of pictures while abroad found underneath each section.
Hola España
With only a backpack and a suitcase I boarded the plane from Greenville, SC on January 17, 2023 to begin my journey to the land of tapas, flamenco, and fiesta. Little did I know that I would be stepping into one of the most wonderfully preserved historical centers of the world’s three largest religions. Everyday in Sevilla I was left amazed of the extraordinary architecture and fascinating culture. I recall on my first full day in Sevilla I explored the small historic Jewish quarter called Santa Cruz and I was overwhelmed with the beauty and preservation of the place. There was never a dull day in Sevilla because you simply never knew what you could find just around the corner.
Sites of Awe
Over time in Sevilla I developed a special connection to certain places and made a habit of taking time to absorb the magnificence of the place I was in. Each day I ate lunch on a bench in front of the Cathedral of Sevilla which I came to learn is the largest gothic cathedral in the entire world. Much more than that it is a prime reflection of the inhabitants of the past in Sevilla. The Cathedral was made in the 16th century on top of the remains of a mosque that was previously there. What was left of the muslim mosque is a high and beautifully detailed tower called La Giralda that stands to this day. The Cathedral and La Giralda stand right next to the historic Jewish Quarter I mentioned before. This place was extraordinary and it was an honor to be able to visit it every day to reflect on my surroundings and the beauties of the culture and history that I was immersed in. Other sites such as the Royal Alcazar, Las Setas, and the Plaza de España continuously left me in awe of the place I was living. The detail and beauty of these sites were a sight to behold that displayed the unique history of Sevilla.
Spanish Culture
One aspect of the culture that I quickly observed was the difference in the approach to time. In Spain people are naturally not rushed and it is not typical to arrive to events early, if anything it's expected that people arrive late. The daily schedule of life does not begin till 10am and people work till around 4pm and then for two hours nearly the entire town closes for siesta (a time of rest) and finally they return to work around 6pm to 8pm. Night life especially in the south of Spain goes until around 3am. I learned that this is because during the summer months the weather is so hot that people cannot be outside during the daylight hours. People of all ages meet together at local tapa bars from 11pm to 3am to socialize during the week.
During my time abroad I also met some beautiful souls from all over the world. Networking was easy in Spain as the atmosphere of life in Sevilla cultivates exciting conversation, especially over tapas and a glass of wine, which are essential pieces to nearly every social event in Spain. I quickly learned that the warmness of the culture towards socialization leads to quick connections. I appreciated the joy that came with every meal and get together that was always filled with laughter and intriguing conversation. Each opportunity I got I challenged myself to speak to locals whether that be the local tapas bars, festivities, or corner stores I struck conversation with Sevillans, immigrants, and tourists throughout my time in Spain. Sevillans were happy to make recommendations of things to do or try in their beloved town. Every corner of the city offered a new local gem just waiting to be discovered. Depicted below are some of my favorite memories exploring the streets of Sevilla that are lined with tapa bars, markets, and the iconic orange trees.
Amigos Abroad
With the friends I made through my program I was able to travel throughout Europe and learn how to develop efficient plans when it came to traveling in groups. These many adventures opened my eyes to the diversity of customs and cultural differences within Spain and furthermore throughout all of Europe. Despite Europe being relatively small in comparison to other continents, it is extremely diverse and observing the distinct differences of cultures throughout Europe was incredible. Prior to my domestic travels in Spain I was not aware of the significant cultural differences there are throughout Spain due to the geographical dividers of the country. Spain actually has four official languages including Castilian, Euskera, Galician, and Catalan. While exploring Spain I was introduced to Catalan and a variety of dialects of Spanish especially in Andaluscia (south of Spain). Depicted below are photos from travel within Spain including Ibiza, Mallorca, Madrid, Cadiz and travel with friends throughout Europe.
Endless Memories
Overall during my time in Sevilla I gained a unique experience that taught me more about Spanish culture and how much diversity there is within the Iberian Peninsula. I grew both academically and personally as I gained independence, adaptability and knowledge through observation and classes that developed my understanding of Spanish history and civilization. Furthermore I was able to develop my language proficiency as I was continuously immersed in the Spanish language and culture. My time in Sevilla was filled with memories to last a lifetime and sparked a passion for travel and all that comes with it. I am looking forward to bringing all I learned abroad into my future endeavors as I am eternally grateful for the lessons and skills gained from my time in Spain.