Maria's Post Trip Reflection

Spain was an unforgettable trip that proved to be highly educational in ways that I did not expect. By this I mean, as anticipated, I took home a new knowledge of the Spanish language but I also picked up on and embraced many aspects of Spanish life. For example, after staying in a Spanish home for two weeks and observing my host mom's behavior, I now find myself turning off every light when not in use and wearing socks while walking around the house. I even remember feeling confused by being able to respond to adults in English after arriving back in Dallas. I find the integration of behavior I learned in Spain in my daily life especially interesting because it demonstrates how even a short exposure to a different culture can shape one's life and habits. After all, the two week trip to Salamanca was enough time to make things I have spent my entire life practicing such as English foreign. I believe that now that I am aware of the changes made possible by complete cultural immersion, I am now more eager to familiarize myself with new cultures and people. Although I value the Flamenco lessons and cooking classes greatly, it is the new view of traveling's impact on one's daily life that I will remember most from this trip.