#explorewednesday when the dreams come true STUDY ABROAD LIVING IN BARCELONA

I remember the day perfectly. I was drinking a cup of my favourite Yorkshire tea while checking my emails, and suddenly I saw the one I had been waiting for over 4 months. I had received the acceptance letter confirming my Exchange for Fashion Marketing and Communication in Barcelona! I had about a month to sort out everything, starting with loads of paper work and research, looking for an apartment, moving out from London, literally changing my whole life...again. Not speaking any Spanish at all wasn’t helpful, especially while calling trying to arrange some apartment viewings! It was another great experience, and it still is.

I will repeat it every time anybody asks me, studying abroad and moving to a foreign country is the best thing you can do in your life, especially when you are young! Getting to know the new environment, culture, language and people. That’s what I really enjoy. 

You will ask how can you do it? I am not going to lie, it isn't easy. You need to believe in yourself and work hard. First of all it depends where you want to go. I chose Barcelona because I have always been in love with the city since I first visited and have always wanted to live there, even if only for a few months. All you need to do is pick a city and check what options your University gives you, and obviously what course suits you the best. And then just apply! There are always people at Universities happy to help you with writing your personal statements, cover letters and creating a portfolio (depends on a course).

 So how is it living in Barcelona? I have only one word for that - AMAZING!! I am falling in love with magical Barca more and more every day. For me it is the best place to be. I have the sun literally all the time, so when I need to wake up for Uni at 8am I don't complain because I just feel like the day will be beautiful and exciting and I want to make the day productive. I could never get bored here. There are thousands of things to do such as admiring the unique architecture, walking around Gothic Quarter, watching flamenco live on every corner, gorgeous shops and of course, the beach! I really enjoy having a walk and getting lost in Gracia where you can find loads of interesting places with local designer shops, or cosy brunch places. I forgot to mention the food! Tapas everywhere! And oh my God, it is such a pleasure to be able sit in Placa Reial and enjoy freshly prepared Paella (eating outside even in February!). 

The thing I have found most difficult about studying abroad or traveling in my opinion is living away from the family. For me it is extremely hard, especially when you have family in three different countries! However every time I leave home my mum says “Go, you would be bored here, you need to go and explore the world, and I am here always waiting for you”.

I already know it will be very hard to leave Barcelona in June, however I am just thinking how many good memories I am going to have and remember!