It has officially been three months in Seville and I cannot believe how fast time has flown. Sadly, I am getting down to the point where I am counting down days rather than months before I return to the United States. While it will be great to return to my family and friends, Seville holds a special place in my heart. After having lived here about three months I have developed a routine schedule. However, there is so much to do in Seville. I am still trying to experience it all so my weeks differ each week. I prefer it this way because there is so much to see that I would hate to develop a set routine and miss out on activities throughout this beautiful city.
The basics of my week include my class schedule and meals. On Monday and Wednesday I have class from 10:30 to 2:30. Therefore, I wake up around 9:15 am in order to get ready, eat a bowl of chocolate crisp cereal, and get to the metro with enough time to make it to class in time. Once class is over I will typically go home and eat lunch. On these days I eat lunch with my host brother and sister and my roommate, Xochitl Cruz. The meals change week to week and so it is always a surprise as to what will be on my plate that day. I like it this way because it keeps me guessing!
Lunches are always a blast when the whole family is together. My host sister is a typical sixteen year old experiencing the days of high school with a boyfriend. She always has good stories to share about her day and we hear all about the drama with her and her friends. I would not have it any other way because it reminds me of home. After lunch I will typically go to my room and Skype with friends or work on homework. As soon as this is completed, I like to get out of the house and explore the city. This consists of everything from visiting different sightseeing spots in Seville, such as going to a bullfight, or just having a picnic with friends in one of the most beautiful parks, Parque de Maria Luisa.
My schedule is different on Tuesday and Thursday. I have class from 1:30-5:20. I typically wake up around 10:00 am and finish homework. Then, I’ll usually go on a run throughout the city. I have really gotten to know the area I live in this way because I never take the same route each time I run. There have been several instances where I have found myself completely lost and without a clue as to where to go. The great thing about Seville is that the people are incredibly friendly. Everyone I have ever asked for help has been more than willing to help me find my way. There have even been times where they will take a moment out of their day and walk me to where I need to go. I have truly appreciated the friendliness from the Spaniards. Every Tuesday a group of us meets for “Churro Tuesdays” at a café close to our homes. This is something we all look forward to each week and we have enjoyed getting to know the locals.
I have found myself traveling most weekends. Whether it is somewhere close to Seville or in another European country, I have loved getting to explore new cities and learn about the different cultures. However, although these trips have been nothing short of amazing, I always look forward to coming back to my home here in Seville.
Emily Pena
Sevilla, Spain
Spring 2012