Hey, I’m Trace. I’m a student at the University of Alabama, and right now I’m studying abroad in Seville, Spain through the UA Education Abroad program. I’m really thankful to be a recipient of this scholarship.
I’ve been in Seville for a few days now, and it’s already been an whirlwind of adventure. I chose to study abroad because I wanted to push myself. I was ready for a change of scenery and a chance to experience life in a different part of the world. Spain stood out because of its culture, language, and the opportunity to grow in ways I wouldn’t back home.
A challenge for me has been adjusting to the time zone difference, which hit me pretty hard initially. I was wide awake at night and half-asleep during the day, but it didn’t take long for me to settle into a routine. The language barrier has been somewhat of another challenge. I’ve taken some Spanish before, but using it in real conversations is a whole different game. I rely on my translate app and a lot of patience. The people here have been understanding, which helps a lot.
Now that I’m here, I’m feeling a mix of things. I’m excited, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little nervous too. There are times when I miss my family and friends, but I’m also equally excited to explore more of this city and see what the next few weeks bring.
My goal is to continue to push myself, get more comfortable speaking Spanish, and come home with some unforgettable experiences and memories.
