Weeks 2-3

I have just completed my third week here in “Barthelona.” Time really does fly by when you’re having fun.

As I progressively become more comfortable, I have noticed myself venturing outside the tourist bubble, finding local shops and cafes filled with locals. I must say, I don’t think I will have enough time here to see all the things I want to see and to experience all that Barcelona has to offer.

Being here, I have found a great interest in following local news and politics as so much is going on while being here. It helps me gain a better understanding of the people who live here and what they are going through. When first arriving, we were informed about the ongoing political struggle here in Barcelona (and Catalonia) and it is very interesting to see how it has been unfolding. Catalonia, a region of Spain that resides mostly within Barcelona, is fighting for independence from Spain. Walking through the neighborhoods you can find yellow flags hanging from windows and terraces meaning that they support all those who have been incarcerated for supporting the fight for independence.

I asked my internship coordinator, who is a native Spaniard, her opinion on the subject and she mentioned that she supports Catalonia becoming independent from the rest of the country. The reason being that Catalonians are quite different from the Spaniards. Being here, I have picked up on the differences quickly, noting the difference in the people overall from their customs, their food, and their overall attitude. From my experience alone, I have noticed that Spaniards are much quicker to help and are more open to meeting new people, while Catalonians are more reserved, and less likely to be friendly, especially if you don’t speak Castellan.

It is only natural that I continue to pick out social and cultural differences while being here. When first arriving, nothing seemed too far off or different from what I was use to, however as time goes on, I have found that there are many more differences than one might think. For example, one of the issues that I find pressing here, is the blatant racism. While I have not personally felt any racism myself, it is obvious that certain groups are not ‘welcomed.’ Time and time again I have seen Black people being mistreated or treated unfairly, regardless of their home country. While many times we complain about these same issues in the U.S., they are no where near as obvious or prominent as they are here. Certain racial groups are DENIED entrance in many places or are up-charged simply because of the color of their skin, it is absolutely shocking and horrible. Although Barcelona seems to be a more modern city, many of their beliefs are clearly outdated and just plain wrong.

As for my internship, I love it! I am finally able to do projects that pertain to my future goals. Most of my co workers continually speak Spanish to me in the office which has helped my listening and speaking skills tremendously. The work culture here is much more relaxed than that compared to the U.S. as people usually show up at different times and take long lunches accompanied by traditional “siestas.” In my opinion, the productivity is equal if not better than what I am use to in the U.S. I cant imagine being stressed out after a 2 hour siesta in the middle of the day, thats for sure!

For now, I am very happy with where I am in my life. I am slowly feeling my anxiety going away, something that I was extremely worried about before arriving. I feel myself smiling and enjoying the littlest things everywhere I go. Life is great!