As I reflect on my past two years living in Seville, Spain, I feel a whirlwind of emotions. It’s hard to put into words how transformative this experience has been, both personally and professionally. Moving abroad to teach English was, without a doubt, one of the most challenging yet rewarding decisions I’ve ever made.
A call to Seville: An intuitive knowing
My journey to Spain was unexpected. During my junior and senior years of college, I felt lost and wanted something more. I planned to teach abroad, but COVID-19 canceled my plans. Eventually, I found a university in Granada that was still accepting Erasmus students, and without hesitation, I booked a flight. Although my stay was only four weeks, it changed everything. I fell in love with Spain and felt called to come back. After graduation, I applied to a teach abroad program and was placed in Seville, Spain, a city I had never heard of. My family and friends were shocked that I was so eager to move abroad, but this was an easy yes for me. I felt at home and at peace in Spain. I knew there was a whole life waiting for me there.
When I first arrived in Seville, I was overwhelmed by the vibrancy of the city, the intricate architecture, the hum of flamenco echoing through the narrow streets, the sweet smell of orange blossoms, and the warmth of the people who make this city so special. The city was alive, and I felt anew. Adjusting to a new culture wasn’t always easy, but I quickly learned to embrace each day with curiosity and an open heart.
An American teacher in a Spanish classroom
My time in the classroom has been equally eye-opening. Working as a Language Assistant has taught me valuable lessons about patience, adaptability, and the power of communication. I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and had years of experience in the classroom. However, teaching in Spain was a whole other ball game. From leading interactive activities to students who didn’t understand me, talking about niche American culture topics, to finding creative ways to explain English grammar, every day brought new challenges and joys. As every teacher does, I fell in love with the challenge of how to best teach my students so they can grow.
Living abroad has also given me the chance to grow outside of my professional role. I’ve found a new sense of independence and resilience, whether it’s navigating traveling, building friendships I’ll have forever, or simply finding comfort in the unfamiliar. Weekends spent exploring nearby cities, indulging in tapas, and soaking in Andalusian culture have truly shaped my experience. One of my favorite memories has been learning to dance sevillanas. Flamenco is a huge part of Andalusian culture. You will find locals dancing in the streets, in the middle of restaurants, and of course, at Feria de Abril. As a proud Leo, Feria and sevillanas had all of my favorite things: powerful dancing, music, and beautiful clothes. I quickly signed up to learn how to dance sevillanas. Since I don’t speak Spanish well, learning how to dance sevillanas has allowed me to connect to Sevillian culture differently.
What’s next?
Looking back, I’m grateful for the incredible opportunity to immerse myself in a new culture while making a positive impact as an educator. Seville will always feel like a second home, and I know that the lessons I’ve learned here will stay with me for years to come. For anyone considering teaching abroad with Meddeas, my advice is simple: take the leap. You’ll gain more than just professional experience; you’ll gain a new perspective on the world.
Living in Seville has been a journey of growth, connection, and unforgettable moments.
I am not sure what is next for me, and that no longer scares me. However, I do know that my time in Spain is not finished. I am eager to continue growing and discovering where this next chapter will take me.
