I have been loving my time in Spain – a joy beyond words. There have been countless experiences and moments that stick out as particularly special, and particularly fulfilling. However, when finding happiness abroad a few elements of the experience, in general, have been exceptionally impactful and bring me joy every day.
I have the privilege of living with the host family I lived with when I studied here as a university student. It is genuinely the best decision I’ve made in my life. Living abroad is difficult, but living alone abroad can be even more challenging. When I moved here for university, my host family welcomed me into their home and made me feel like a part of the family from the very first day.
Someday Soon…
Our bond grew closer and closer as my semester went on, but unfortunately, 6 months later I had to return to New York. But, there was always an understanding that someday, and someday soon, I would return to Spain and we would be reunited. Thankfully I had the opportunity to participate in the Meddeas program and live with the same family. It’s an experience that not everyone enjoys, and indeed not twice or thrice. Every day, I go home after a tiring day with my students, and my house awaits me, full of love and joy. We spend time together as one would with their family – cooking, dancing, laughing, and loving life.
Some of the experiences that bring me the most joy are some of the most mundane. This includes cooking together, watching movies together, going for walks together, dancing around the house together, or simply eating dinner together. The mundane things “together”, the early morning greetings and late night “good night” hugs and kisses, fill my heart with joy, a sense of home, and a sense of family.
A house full of love, the smell of home-cooked meals, and warm hugs to embrace.
Furthermore, seeing my students every day always puts a smile on my face! There are many possible causes of stress or anxiety when approaching this experience. There is a level of chaos or disorganization when it comes to being a Language Assistant, that you simply have to embrace and accept as a part of the experience. Finding happiness abroad is an opportunity to grow and embrace the experience as your own. Make it what you want it to be, you’ll quickly find the joy within it. A smile or high-five from the quiet students, a hug from the emotional ones, or a moment of connection with one of your teachers, makes it all worth the moments of uncertainty.
The halls of our school, brightly lit and plastered with our brilliant students’ creations.
My time in the Meddeas program has brought so many moments of joy – some temporary, some permanent. It’s an experience I am and will continue to be forever grateful for.
Xoxo,
Emilia
