Stereotypes

After speaking with my language partner I learned a little about some of the stereotypes of Spaniard and Americans. Some of the Spanish stereotypes I have heard include; being lazy, being alcoholics, and being partiers. For the most part I can see where some of these things could be seen in the Spanish culture however I don’t really think that these are fair assumptions. They consider themselves lazy because students never really work and everything closes for siesta time in the middle of the day. I consider this to be smart. Students should be focusing on their studies and siestas refresh you for the rest of the day. There is also nothing wrong with having a drink or two with your meal. It is good for you and sometimes makes the food taste better. As for being partiers, I think they just know how to have a good time. I guess the fact that clubs are really crowded on weekdays makes me think that maybe they are a little party crazy. I know for myself, I would not be able to do that on a regular basis.

Some of the stereotypes they said about Americans is that we are all really rich and are always able to buy whatever we want. I guess they might get that idea from tv and the way we live. A lot of us do live in houses and our parents have decent jobs but I know I am not rich in the least so that is definitely not true in my eyes.  

I think stereotypes can be a little dangerous. I know my mom was nervous to send me here for school because of some of the stereotypes that she heard, especially the partying part. After being here for about 2 weeks I can see the great parts of this culture and see that the people here are amazing.  

Culture Shock

So far everything has been going really well. I really enjoyed Madrid and Toledo. Granada has also been really great so far. I definitely think the food has been the hardest thing to adjust to. I like most of it but we always eat so late and dinner is not very filling a lot of the time. I guess I am just used to eating a lot all of the time. One of the hardest parts is communicating. I always feel bad when someone is speaking to me and I have no idea what they are saying. For the most part I can figure it out but coming up with a response is hard. 

So far I haven’t really felt that homesick. I guess I am just trying to have a good time and not worry about anything else. We are here to take class but we are also here to immerse ourselves into the culture and lifestyle. For now I am happy where I am and I know this experience is going to fly by so I want to make the most of it all.  

I have definitely had to catch myself a few times where I am speaking much louder than I should have been. Here they speak much softer. They also never look like they are in a hurry. So having to slow things down is much different than what I am used to. 

I have definitely noticed myself being a lot more tired then usual. I think it has a lot to do with having to think about what I am going to say really hard before I say it. Meals are exhausting because we are constantly struggling to find the right words. Living this different lifestyle is definitely an adjustment but I think I am figuring it out.   

Expectations

          To me culture is what makes one country stand out from another. It is what makes the place unique; the food, the streets, the traditions. It is what make people look around and say, "Yes, I am in Spain!"
          I am really excited for this new experience and for the opportunity to learn in a completely new setting. I am also however really nervous. I have been out of the country before without my family however, not for this length of time. I am trying to not have any expectations for how it is going to be because I honestly do not know. I know it is going to be different but, I think that might be what I am most excited and nervous about.
          I think Spanish culture is going to be much different from American culture. The one thing, at least, Spanish and American people share is pride for their country. They world cup is going on and being able to see the pride that Spanish people have for their team is really going to be exciting.
         I have to expect that the food is going to be an adjustment. I am really hoping my host will allow me to assist in the kitchen and she can teach me a thing or two. I am a picky eater but I am will to try anything al least once.
        The one thing i am not so excited for is the language barrier. I know I have the ability to hold a minor conversation with someone but I am a little nervous that I may say something wrong and it turn  out badly. I will try my best but hopefully it will become easier as the weeks go by.