The Politics of Soccer in Spain and Beyond
For as long as I can remember, some of my closest friends throughout my school years have come from a Spanish background. As I got older, I came to fall in love with the culture: from the language, food, music, celebrations and festivals, to the community, everything about Spanish culture intrigued me. To be able to have been granted the chance to explore Spain was truly a dream come true, and I want to share my experience with you all.
Upon my arrival in Leon, another friend from the program and I both lost our luggage; it was later recovered, even if mine took a bit longer to return! Due to this, within those first couple of days of my arrival, my host mom extended her hospitality for whatever I needed. I had first gotten to know my host mom through email. She sent me pictures of my room and her home, as well as of herself and her family, allowing me to take a glimpse of what my home stay would be like. In these emails, she told me how excited she was to meet me, complimenting me on the photos I sent of my family and I. Therefore, when I arrived, stepping off the bus from the airport to Leon and hearing my name being called, I was touched to see that my host mom was one of the first parents to be there. Spanish greeting customs slipped my mind was we hugged, making the small peck on my cheek as we pulled away from our hug a warm surprise. The next thing I knew, I felt something prickly on the same cheek. It turned out to be my host mom’s son, getting me with a small peck as well. This was definitely something that I had to get used to.
It became time for everyone to split ways and head home with their families. As expected, there was a language barrier, but nothing the likes of three years of high-school Spanish and google translate couldn’t fix. The ride to my new home was warm. I felt welcomed as my host family inquired about myself and my life back in the states. My host mom’s son even put in serious effort to communicate with me in English.
We arrived at the apartment and I was relieved to escape sharing a room with seven other people and to have my own bathroom, even if all that company made the days more fun. It was time for dinner and one of the differences I noticed compared to my own family background is the dinner order. Back at my home in the states, we only have the main meal. But here in Leon, there was the starter, main meal, AND dessert. Everyone was grabbing their own serving and happily passing dishes around. It’s been a long time since I was surrounded by such familial warmth.
After learning that I had lost my luggage, my host mom provided me with a nightgown. Although it was a bit big for me, she thought I looked adorable in it. She gave me some shower necessities as well, and off to bed I went.
The next morning, I woke up to the sounds of oil sizzling in the pan. For the first time in my life, I woke up to homemade breakfast being prepared for me. I also think it was the first time I woke up willingly in time to have breakfast. My host mom and I had a short conversation and she was very patient with my broken Spanish, and even downloaded a translation app to communicate with me as well. I was given a goodbye kiss on the cheek as I left for school.
From that morning on and for the next three weeks, I walked to school and everywhere else. During that first morning, there was so much I learned about Spanish culture. I learned that Elders, whether they were single or coupled, liked to walk together. I learned that bars and bakeries were open early. I learned that there were many popular dog breeds in Spain that weren’t in the U.S. I learned that people liked to smoke together and sip coffee. It seemed like everyone knew one another. As I made my 20 minute walk to school, I took in the scenery of my surroundings. The architecture, colors, street art, and sculptures mesmerized me. It became something I want to be around all the time.
No one had warned me that our classes at the language center were only going to be taught in Spanish. That was also a completely new environment to me. However, students regardless of where they were from, were able to teach one another about where they came from. Additionally, many classes had students that could speak English, allowing all, students and teachers, to practice their English. With my vietnamese background, everyone was able to learn from me too.
This study abroad put me in a position where for the first time, I was in a place where I did not know anyone or anything. I did not know the streets I walked and the people I passed. I was a stranger to the culture and the neighborhood and that shook me to my core. It was a challenge that I took it on, knowing that I was going to be able to enjoy every moment of it due to my love for adventure. I was the one planning my days, deciding where to go, who I spend time with, what I eat, where I shop, and so much more.
Being a part of the program has allowed to me to truly be independent and understand my capabilities as someone who may be in an unfamiliar place with new people. I came to realize that I am eager to learn about others and their cultures, that I love to seek new experiences and appreciate it what I have of my own. Never in my life have I had to walk everywhere and not only did it test my self endurance, but time management too. But through these walks I came to appreciate the history of the city.
Through this program, I was able to experience so many things. New foods, music, people, trips, shops. I met people who I will cherish and remember for the rest of my life. I’ve made memories that only those who were there will ever know as their richness defy explanation. My life has been enhanced and changed. My desire to travel the world has increased and it is all due to this study abroad program. I am ready for another! What a blessing summer 2019 has been.
Emily Phan-Ly, Summer 2019
