Hi. My name is Kameryn, and I am so excited to share my journey to Spain from the United States. Before joining Meddeas, I recently completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Virginia, where I majored in Public Policy & Leadership. During my final year in college, I had the opportunity to study abroad in South Africa over winter break; this experience helped me realize my passion for traveling and language learning. Thus, I immediately began looking for jobs abroad.
Why I Applied to Meddeas
Knowing that I wanted to live in Europe after graduation and improve my Spanish, I applied to a few programs to teach English in Spain. One of the main reasons I chose Meddeas was the option to live with a host family. I loved the idea of learning firsthand about Spanish culture and language by living with a family.
I had hopes of cooking traditional Spanish dishes together, going on family adventures, celebrating holidays and birthdays, and practicing my Spanish at the dinner table. After living in Spain for a little over a month with my host family, I can confidently say that all of these hopes have been fulfilled! With the help of Meddeas, I have been able to find my ‘home away from home.’
First Few Weeks in Spain
Adjusting to my new environment has been both fun and overwhelming at times. My first few weeks in Spain were very eventful. Here are some things that I have done in the first few weeks of living here:
- Explored Barcelona, where I ate ‘tapas’ with my host family and went on a guided tour to learn about the city’s history. Ordering tapas is similar to going to an American restaurant and only ordering appetizers. They are quite delicious. Some of my favorites are patatas bravas (potatoes with smoked paprika sauce) and pan con tomate (bread with fresh tomatoes rubbed on top).
- Ordered “café con leche” at several local coffee shops.
- Settled into my school placement and made friends with my coworkers; one of my coworkers invited me to an American country-themed restaurant, where we took a line dancing class together.
- Tried the famous ‘tortilla’ dish that Spain is known for; Spanish tortillas are omelets stuffed with potatoes and onions, usually served at room temperature.
- Spent a day at Park Güell and visited La Casa de Gaudí; this is one of Spain’s most popular and beautiful tourist attractions.
- Took a trip to Rome with the teachers at my school to celebrate the Jubilee and walk through La Puerta Santa as we prayed together.
Author: Kameryn D.