Barcelona, Spain, *Katie Kays,

Where did you study abroad?
Barcelona

For how long? (and why did you choose that length?) 

1 semester...i could not be gone my whole senior year
 
Which program? 
CEA
 
Pre-departure preparations

getting my visa was a little stressful...so was packing, i had no idea what to bring
 
Beginning experiences and feelings upon arrival? 

I was very nervous, excited, and anxious...when i arrived i felt very jet
lagged and disoriented...but it was an exciting feeling
 
Any culture shock? excitement? nervous? 

Definitely culture shock...i was nervous & excited Best part: 

traveling around to different countries....trying different foods
 
Difficulties? (cultural, language, etc) 

I missed my best friends and family A LOT....i think that was the only real difficulty....other than everything being so expensive
 
Information about Barcelona (best places to go, watch out for, etc..): 

haha way too much to put in writing...best restaurant was ceveseria catalonia, watch out for pick pocketers, best clubs: oshum and razzmatazz.....just to name a few :)
 
What you learned? 

I learned a lot about being on my own and taking initiative...i learned about adjusting to unfamiliar situations and communicating with people from other cultures
 
Any advice you’d give to a prospective study abroad student? 

Do research beforehand, roll with the punches, relax, be safe, and have fun!