May 3
I have tried to write this blog post about 12 different times, and I still do not know how to express how I feel about leaving. I’ll admit, although I am bursting with excitement to see my friends and family, the idea of leaving Granada is a bit scary.
Michelle Alderink is a student at Grand Valley State University and an ISA Featured Blogger. Michelle is currently studying abroad with ISA in Granada, Spain.
La Alhambra
As my time in Granada is coming to an end, I’m realizing this is this the hardest blog post yet. I could never put into words the amazing experiences, great memories with new friends and even character-changing challenges I’ve experienced here. All I can say is that following my instincts to study in Granada was simply the best and most important decision I’ve ever made. That being said, I’d like to leave you with 3 pieces of advice to ensure that you have an amazing study abroad experience during which you’re just as amazed and challenged as I have been. Read more
Michelle Alderink is a student at Grand Valley State University and an ISA Featured Blogger. Michelle is currently studying abroad with ISA in Granada, Spain.
While studying abroad in Granada, Spain this semester I have taken advantage of learning about the culture as well as the history of my wonderful city. One of the best ways in which I have taken part in the culture of Granada, is by creating relationships with locals and getting to know the best sites in Granada through them.
Katie Martorano is a student at Rowan University and an ISA Featured Blogger. Katie is currently studying abroad with ISA in Granada, Spain.
Me and my handy-dandy roll of toilet paper. It was easier to carry around than a tissue box!
Being sick in a different country is not fun. Granted, being sick in general is not fun. But when I was sick in Spain, it was really a challenge. Not because I was deathly ill or had to go to the hospital or anything, but because my mom wasn’t around. I was self-diagnosed with a nasty case of homesickness (and a cold).
Michelle Alderink is a student at Grand Valley State University and an ISA Featured Blogger. Michelle is currently studying abroad with ISA in Granada, Spain.
We’ve all listened to the catchy song ‘Gagnam Style’ and have enjoyed (and slightly suffered from) its catchiness and make-you-want-to-dance beat. However, never would I have thought that a parody of this video based on my host city, Granada, would be exactly what I needed to break my nervousness about the thick Granadino accent.
Michelle Alderink is a student at Grand Valley State University and an ISA Featured Blogger. Michelle is currently studying abroad with ISA in Granada, Spain.
The Alhambra
In order to feel more at home while abroad, it’s important to learn about your city’s culture, history, and unique beauty in order to truly appreciate where you are living. Luckily, in my first 3 weeks here in Granada, Spain, I have been taking every opportunity exploring and would like to share with you 10 places I’ve enjoyed visiting in Granada.
Katie Martorano is a student at Rowan University and an ISA featured blogger. Katie is currently abroad ISA in Granada, Spain.
It always sounds so nice to go explore the city for the afternoon. Maybe you’ll try to go that little tapas bar your friend suggested, or go find a good place to buy cheap peanut butter that some girl in your class had the other day. After class, you mark up your map and go on your way. But what do you do when five streets later the map suddenly starts to look more and more like a maze? What about when you mistake the pretty tiled street signs on the sides of buildings for art? And most importantly, what do you do when your phone dies and you’re stuck next to some fountain somewhere with only five euro in your pocket?
Albaycin neighborhood in Granada, Spain
Even though I was profoundly embarrassed, I was welcomed with a round smiling face and a laugh that you can hear in China.
Michelle Alderink is a student at Grand Valley State University and an ISA Featured Blogger. Michelle is currently studying abroad with ISA in Granada, Spain
Before I started my trip to Granada I prepared everything I could. I printed maps and guidelines and scoured the internet for the most recommended tourist attractions. During my first week, I was excited to put my knowledge to use and experience all of Spain. Despite my eagerness, I never considered that getting lost would be a valid component to my experience in Spain. Read more
Jordan Mathews is a student at University of Colorado, Boulder and an ISA Featured Blogger. Jordan is currently studying abroad with ISA in Granada, Spain.
There will be moments of panic, moments of anxiety, moments of doubt… Accompanied by moments of ecstasy, discovery and epiphany. You will find triumph in successfully going to the bank without the assistance of others and will confront frustration in the petty obstacles that greet your attempt at ordering at a bar. (Now is the time to put your sense of humor in an easily accessible pocket.)
Mountain majesty @Colorado- Home Sweet Home
@Granada- My Home away from Home
