Zoe - Escola Superior de Disseny i d'Arts Plàstiques de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain

"The best thing I have ever done!"

Memorable Moments

I had so many amazing experiences in Barcelona that it’s difficult to narrow them down to just a few! The most memorable moments were having the opportunity to experience beautiful Catalan holidays and culture-such as El dia de Sant Jordi, La Mercè, and La Diada-where the city comes alive with Catalan pride. It’s a wonderful thing to see people so proud of where they come from. Within my studies, I also had the opportunity to take a wide range of subjects, from design projects to traditional art techniques, computer coding, and even ceramics and calligraphy. I now have skills and ideas I never would have thought possible before this opportunity!

Cultural Differences and Shared Pride

The biggest difference I noticed between Irish and Catalan culture was the daily routine. The weather here allows for a lifestyle that’s simply impossible back home. Local parks buzz with families, the streets are constantly full of people out walking and running, you will always see someone sitting out on their balcony with a coffee or a book, and social life is extremely valued here with people often sitting at bars and restaurants late into the evening. In terms of similarities, Catalunya is a small nation with big pride, just like home. Catalan people do not like to be called Spanish and have a fierce pride in their culture as well as speaking the Catalan language - which, like Irish, was suppressed for many years and has also experienced a major revival movement in recent years.

Overcoming the Language Barrier

The biggest challenge I encountered was the language. I arrived in Barcelona thinking I could speak enough Spanish, but learning it in school is totally different from being immersed with locals every day. My Spanish lessons through my university were cancelled, so I was forced to take it upon myself if I wanted to learn, and I did just that. I practiced speaking with local friends and studied using online resources at home, as private lessons were very expensive. Slowly but surely, my confidence speaking in Spanish grew, and now, at the end of my time in Barcelona, I can hold fluid conversations and easily get by in day-to-day life. I have also picked up some Catalan along the way, which is very important when living in Catalunya.

Building Global and Local Friendships

I was so worried when I moved that it would be difficult to make friends, but I couldn’t have been more wrong! I have met people I know I will be friends with for life from all over the world, and I was incredibly lucky to also become extremely close with my two flatmates. The most memorable connections I have made are those with my local Catalan friends, people who can come across a little bit closed off at first, but once you get to know them, they are the kindest, most welcoming people. It has been amazing to meet so many kind people who are on the same wavelength and share the same ambitions in life!

Exploring Cities Across Europe

During my time in Barcelona, I have travelled to many different cities, both inside and outside of Spain: Valencia, Girona, Madrid, Malaga, Porto, Geneva, Chamonix, Amsterdam, Venice, and Palma. Barcelona is a great city to travel from, as you can easily get to other cities in Spain by train or by renting a car. It’s been amazing to be able to experience so many different cities and cultures!

Embracing the Journey Abroad

If you aren’t sure whether you want to study abroad or not - do it! I was on the fence for a long time, unsure if I wanted to go away since I had never lived away from home before, and I was afraid that I wouldn’t like it. My best advice is to feel the fear and do it anyway. It’s not going to be easy; there will be hard times and days where you just want to go home, but the growth, independence, and memories you will experience will be second to none. I can’t recommend it enough - I have come back a completely different version of myself from when I left.