Embarking on a study abroad adventure is often touted as a transformative experience, but until you live it, the true depth of this impact remains unknown. My journey to Barcelona, Spain, supported by the prestigious Vira I. Heinz scholarship, became an unexpected catalyst for profound personal growth, largely thanks to the welcoming presence of my host mom, Mercedes. This experience, facilitated by the opportunities provided by Arcadia University and the scholarship, reshaped my perspectives and broadened my horizons in ways I could never have imagined.
The Warm Embrace of Mercedes: A Host Mom Who Became Family
Living with a host mom, Mercedes, was more than just accommodation; it was an immersion into the heart of Spanish culture. From the moment I arrived, Mercedes embraced me, understanding my limited Spanish but encouraging me to learn through immersion. She patiently translated, guided me through daily life, and by the end of my stay, conversations flowed between us in Spanish. Mercedes wasn’t just a host; she was a guide, introducing me to her family, friends, and the rhythms of Barcelona life. She taught me to navigate the Metro, understand the local transportation, and even shared insights into Barcelona’s political landscape, including the election of the new mayor and the nuances of Catalan identity. My connection with Mercedes, a central figure in my Barcelona experience, truly exemplifies the personal touch that can make study abroad programs so enriching, and it’s an aspect I deeply value reflecting on my time with Arcadia Mercedes.
Alt: Welcoming host mom Mercedes in Barcelona, a key figure in Arcadia study abroad experience.
The concept of Catalans was entirely new to me before arriving in Spain. Mercedes patiently explained the Catalan identity, their distinct language, their pursuit of independence, and the complex relationship with Spain. Witnessing the Catalan nationalistic sentiment firsthand in public spaces was an eye-opening experience, adding another layer of cultural understanding to my stay.
Academic Adventures: Catalonia and Spain Through the Arts
Stepping outside my comfort zone academically, I enrolled in “Catalonia and Spain Through the Arts.” As a senior biology major with no prior art or history background in college, this course was a leap into the unknown. It proved to be a delightful surprise. I forged a strong friendship with a classmate from Nashville, and together, we explored Barcelona’s art scene, visiting museums and architectural landmarks. The course, led by Professor Marcel, ignited a newfound appreciation for art and architecture. Intrigued by Antoni Gaudí, I focused my projects on his works, visiting iconic sites, capturing them through photographs, and creating a project that deepened my understanding and admiration for art. Professor Marcel’s passionate teaching was instrumental in fostering this unexpected love for art history.
Alt: Student engaging in art class in Barcelona, part of Arcadia University study abroad program.
Barcelona vs. U.S.: Reflections on Urban Living and Lifestyle
Barcelona revealed aspects of urban living that sparked a desire for change back home. The city’s efficient and integrated transportation system, encompassing buses, trains, bikes, walking, and scooters, minimized traffic congestion and promoted smooth mobility for everyone.
The minimalist lifestyle embraced in Barcelona also resonated deeply. People prioritized needs over excess, owning only essentials and favoring smaller living spaces. The emphasis on fresh, unprocessed food was another revelation. Experiencing bread molding within days highlighted the stark contrast to processed foods, and the home-cooked meals I enjoyed left me feeling healthier and more energized, especially combined with the daily walking. Comfortable walking shoes are essential; Dr. Scholls proved invaluable, allowing me to walk miles each week blister-free. The overall sense of well-being was remarkable, even reducing my reliance on caffeine compared to my usual U.S. routine. Finally, Barcelona’s cleanliness was striking. Dedicated street cleaners and readily available recycling bins reflected a strong civic consciousness for environmental responsibility.
Pivotal Moments: The Four Agreements and Personal Transformation
Among the most impactful moments was a conversation with a friend of Mercedes, an artist and philosopher fluent in English. He introduced me to The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz, sharing principles that resonated deeply with my personal development and leadership aspirations. “Be impeccable with your word,” “Don’t take anything personally,” “Don’t make assumptions,” and “Always do your best” – these agreements, discussed over dinner, offered a framework for self-improvement and effective leadership. This conversation, more than any tourist attraction or social event, became the pivotal point of my trip, highlighting the profound personal growth facilitated by the study abroad experience.
Later, venturing to Naples and Marseille tested my adaptability further. Navigating Italy with no Italian language skills was challenging but rewarding, even allowing me to connect with local culture through their passionate soccer fandom. Marseille, with my family roots and French language skills, provided a comfortable contrast, enabling meaningful communication with relatives. Successfully navigating these diverse cities and languages, and even assisting my friends, instilled a sense of resourcefulness and confidence in overcoming language barriers.
Two further observations profoundly shifted my perspective. Firstly, the absence of judgment regarding body image on Barcelona beaches was liberating. People of all body types wore whatever they chose without self-consciousness, a stark contrast to the self-scrutiny often prevalent in the U.S. Secondly, embracing solitude became a surprising joy. Dining alone, exploring independently, even enjoying nightlife solo, felt comfortable and empowering, breaking the U.S. stigma against solo activities.
The Vira I. Heinz Scholarship: Your Pathway to Global Leadership at Arcadia
The Vira I. Heinz Scholarship, offered at Arcadia University through the University of Pittsburgh, is a remarkable opportunity for women, non-binary, and transgender students aspiring to leadership roles. This scholarship supports sophomores and juniors with limited international experience, providing $5000 towards a study abroad program of at least 28 days. Arcadia University students, among others, can leverage this scholarship to participate in diverse international experiences, including study abroad programs, volunteer work, or internships. The program extends beyond the travel experience, incorporating weekend retreats in Pittsburgh and a Community Engagement Experience (CEE) to encourage scholars to apply their global learning to local community impact. More details about this transformative scholarship can be found here.
My study abroad journey to Barcelona, enriched by the Vira I. Heinz scholarship and the warmth of Arcadia Mercedes, was far more than a trip; it was a catalyst for personal evolution. It underscored the transformative power of international experiences, the importance of cultural immersion, and the profound impact of human connection. For students considering study abroad and seeking opportunities for leadership development, the Vira I. Heinz scholarship and Arcadia University provide an exceptional pathway to a life-changing adventure.
Stay tuned for my next post, where I will introduce you to fellow Vira Scholars from Arcadia and share their unique study abroad journeys within Arcadia University’s diverse programs. We will also feature highlights from Alexis Fisher, a STAMP executive board member, offering further insights into the enriching world of study abroad.
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