Learning From Cadiz

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Something I loved about Cadiz was seeing all the different ways you can expand your mind in a new place. There is only so much you can see in your own country. You can go deep into your country’s history or literature or art but when you go to another country you get to see first hand that there is so much more to learn, see, feel, and experience. 

For example you get to see lord of the rings in spanish, which may not be one of the most exciting to most but still is very cool. While you stumble upon some Spanish Tolkien you also discover a book on origins of Spanish literature, you get to know more poets that you would only have heard about through an American perspective. 

On the note of history, seeing monuments you only just touched upon in history class has been one of the coolest experiences. I loved seeing everything like I was there when it happened. There’s something to be said about experiential learning because being in the location where something big happened where people you learned about in history books stood really helps you understand the significance of the hours you have spent in classrooms learning. 

Another way the whole group got to participate in experiential learning was when we all got to make paella. Eating food out is one thing but when you do it yourself there is an extra level of intention in how you learn. Instead of just getting paella in a restaurant we got to learn how to make paella in Spanish. Working together to create and learn about a meal from Spanish culture was such a unique and cool experience. 

The beach was another great experience, especially at night because you got a chance to see all the energy and life there was once the sun sets. This is not just for young adults but for families too. People would sit along the wall by the beach and play guitar, games or just sit and laugh together. It was a beautiful way to see a snippet of everyday life in Cadiz. 

Just like in the states there are interesting historical locations here and there that are worth making a day trip to. It could be easy to stay in the one location you visit, like Cadiz, but by one quick train or bus ride you have the opportunity to see even more new and exciting things like Sevilla with its beautiful castle and grand Cathedral! 


Though staying inside and studying can feel like a necessity with taking classes it is important to go outside and experience things or even plan a daytrip on a weekend because there is just as much to learn outside the classroom as there is inside. I did this when I visited Sevilla on my first weekend and I am so glad that I did!

Another important thing I learned is that you have to make time to relax! Yes you are busy taking classes and they are very important but if you are not getting enough sleep or are not taking time to unwind it can make learning more difficult and less fun. Learning another language is such a cool thing and it should be exciting even when it is hard. This is why taking a break even just to go for a quick walk in the garden across the street and saying hi to some local people is so important! You will remember how exciting it is to be there and you will be making the time to take a walk in a beautiful city!