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<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nThis photograph was taken at the top of Mount Ulia during sunrise. How did I get there? I hiked! I don\u2019t usually hike, and I\u2019m not a particular fan of waking up before the sun. However, I don\u2019t regret this decision to the slightest degree. Alongside two of my friends (whom I met just last week!), we biked about twenty minutes to the bottom of this mountain, and then followed a trail for about thirty minutes until we reached our destination. At the beginning of this hike, the majority being all stairs, it was discouraging. I was questioning why I woke up so early to climb what felt like fifteen flights of stairs. Then, there were short times of flat terrain during the hike in which I could catch my breath. During the last portion, the sun began to peek out the tops of the trees, and after climbing up a steep rock, we were stunned by the beauty around us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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Looking to the left, there was a full view of the coast of San Sebasti\u00e1n, simply vibrant in color. To the right, the sun was emerging out from behind a small mountain. As I listened to the crashing of the waves and inhaled the cool air, I instantly forgot about the burn in my legs going up those stairs and any lingering drowsiness. The feeling of accomplishment I experienced made it so worth it. I couldn\u2019t have been more content at that moment, it was the best way I could have begun my morning. This memory will hold value when I look back at my milestones that took place in San Sebasti\u00e1n.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moreover, I\u2019ve emphasized to myself that being out of my comfort zone will help me gain a new perspective and ensure I experience what the Basque country has to offer. Not even three days into the trip, the 16 students here have bonded in some shape, way, or form. Two of these students were my suitemates from freshman year. Having them with me in San Sebasti\u00e1n is the greatest gift but I have formed many friendships aside from them. Afterall, I went on a hike with two students who I met only last week! It is simply crazy to grasp this because of the amount of memories we have made in such a short stretch of time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On day two, the group met Professor Zabalbeascoa for the first time. We strolled around the city to learn the history of where we are for the next three weeks and shared short introductions of who we are and why we chose to explore San Sebasti\u00e1n. This was simply a glimpse into what this trip has ahead. There are two aspects of the Basque culture that have stood out to me the most in my one week of exploration: food and amiability. I further embraced these aspects during my first free weekend in San Sebasti\u00e1n.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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While pintxos are a staple of Basque society, I want to bring particular attention to the art of making and the act of drinking coffee. My love for coffee is deeper than just the taste. At home, I am always going to coffee shops with my friends to \u201ccatch up.\u201d On nearly every block in San Sebasti\u00e1n is a cafe, giving people endless opportunities to connect and talk\/spend time with each other in a friendly, calm environment. I\u2019ve gotten coffee in San Sebasti\u00e1n alone and with my peers; I\u2019ve noticed people are not rushed! They sit to talk and enjoy their coffee, whereas I\u2019m used to seeing people grab their coffee on the go in the U.S. This is a reflection of the fast-paced society in the U.S. Visiting coffee shops is by far one of my favorite experiences in Spain, it gives me time to calm down and reflect on the culture around me. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
On Saturday night, about seven of us decided to visit Parte Vieja. As we rode our bikes into the city, I cannot emphasize how busy and lively the environment was. It was impossible to miss. Music filled the air, people danced in the streets, and the smell of food was incredible. As the group weaved in and out of the streets, stopping at bars when something caught the eye and taking into consideration the recommendations Professor Zabalbeascoa gave during the pintxo tour earlier in the week, we were quick to fill our bellies. That didn\u2019t mean there wasn\u2019t room for gelato! After meeting up with more students, I was able to get to know more about my peers. Our conversations that night entailed each of our life aspirations, our morals, and philosophies we follow in daily life. Getting to know the people around me has helped me reflect on who I want to be in the future. I don’t take this personal, educational experience for granted. Even though it has only been one week, exploring these new terrains has enhanced my confidence, skills, and overall happiness.\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Prior to arriving in San Sebasti\u00e1n, I truly did not know what to expect. While saying this, I made a promise to myself that I would make the most of this three-week study abroad. As the first week reaches an … Continue reading