This is part II, of my study abroad experience that is. Yes, I am abroad again, in Madrid (Spain) to be precise, this time on the Erasmus programme as part of my third year in university. I know I know, I’m always travelling (so it seems) but me having the opportunity to study abroad for two consecutive years, was the choice I was given by my uni as part of my degree (International Business with Mandarin).
So why Madrid, why Spain? Well, honestly I literally chose to study in Spain based on the fact that I’d been on holidays before here (Barcelona) and really just loved it. Also, I don’t think I’ll be able to live in a country with an extremely cold climate anymore. But bear in mind that I’ve actually never learnt Spanish or knew any prior but I guess that I’m learning now (well sort-of).
It’s been over a month now since I’ve moved here and honestly my opinion of studying in Madrid is quite mixed. I won’t be fake and lie, pretending that I’ve loved every single second of my time here and wouldn’t trade it for the world cause there have been times that I’ve second guessed my decision. Maybe it’s due to the fact that it feels as if I’m constantly having to restart my life somewhere new, every so often. But moving away to a brand new country, by yourself is not easy. For me having previously studied abroad, in some ways killed the innocence and excitement of trying something new for the first time.
However, don’t get me wrong I’ve really enjoyed being here. Madrid is a beautiful city, “the city of thousands faces” I think they call it but really it should be – the city that never sleeps because no matter what time of the day it is, there’s always a lot of people, everywhere. It’s always alive. And the weather, the 26 degrees of heat, is not something you can complain about. My favourite part, the food. Pizza and kebabs are super cheap here, so I’ve definitely overdone it. I finally got to try Taco Bell which was just okay, nothing spectacular and the famous churros and chocolate from San Gines (which is a must in Madrid). Also, I think it’s safe to say I’m officially obsessed with nachos and melted cheese.
It really is one of those experiences that has to challenge you in order for it to be great, so I believe. Like I said a few months ago, studying abroad is not easy but it’s not meant to be. Like anything in life, they’ll be bright beautiful spells but also thunder and lightning. After when it’s all said and done, in the end you’ll be proud that you’ve done it, you’ve experienced it because great things never came from living within your comfort zones!
Billykiss
