Getting ready for my adventure

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T minus 7 days, and I'm off on my first solo travel adventure! I found this great program (InterExchange) that placed me with a nice family in Madrid. I'm going to live in their home for three months, teaching their children English in exchange for room and board.

I feel so excited and scared right now. I'm glad I committed to this adventure before I really thought it through! My Spanish is lousy. I'm on the introverted end of the spectrum, so I know I need to make a concerted effort to interact with people, and I know that will be a challenge with the language barrier. I guess I'm most afraid of linguistic isolation. Hopefully blogging will help me feel connected while I'm gone.

I just finished my PhD a few weeks ago, and when I return from Spain I'll be heading to the clinics to complete med school. I don't know when I'll have a chance to travel like this again. I really hope this trip punctuates the major changes in my life and in my personal development.

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Comments

[Molly Moore]

You go girl
Michelle- You are going to have so much fun. Sounds like a great program, and I can't wait to read about your adventures. Don't worry- even if your Spanish is lousy, you'll be able to speak to other travellers in English (and French?). And after three months- you'll be able to hack out a conversation with the best of them! I'm so jealous. Anyways- have a great trip over and enjoy- you deserve it! Molly

[Jonathan]

Spanish Flag?
Hey! Will the flag change into the Spanish flag when you head overseas? How do they do that?!

[Brandon]

Viva Espana!
I can't do the upside down exclamation but oh well. Your certainly soaking in the culture of Madrid by now. I hope you are having a good time and staying out of trouble :). Don't forget hang out on the Plaza Mayor downtown and watch the artists. Careful with the Gypsys, though. They will take your money in no time flat. Cheers and have fun. I will check back later for more bloggage.