For Ivan, studying abroad in Spain wasn’t about a single good memory, it was about immersing himself in a series of unforgettable firsts. Every day brought something new to see, taste, and experience, making it impossible to choose just one “favorite.”
Still, there was one moment that truly made him stop and think, “Wow, I’m in Spain.” It happened at his first soccer game in Barcelona. Sitting in the stands with his teacher, surrounded by cheering fans, the energy was electric. “The atmosphere was incredible,” he recalled. “That’s when it really hit me that I was here, experiencing Spain in a way I never could back home.”
One of the biggest surprises for Ivan was how different everyday life felt, especially when it came to getting around. Back in the U.S., driving is second nature, but in Spain, many shops and stores were just a short walk away. This meant more walking, more exploring, and more opportunities to soak in the rhythm of Spanish local life.
If he could talk to his pre-departure self, his advice would be simple: “Enjoy the moment. Don’t worry about anything besides your safety and the memories you’ll make here, because when is the next time you’ll be in this place with this group?”
Looking ahead, Ivan sees his experience abroad as something that will continue to shape him especially in his culinary career. The flavors he tasted, the dishes he enjoyed, and the techniques he observed in Spain are sure to find their way into his cooking, both personally and professionally.
