My time in Valencia, Spain was the best experience of my life. I remember after a whole day of travel, seeing my host dad holding up a piece of paper with my name on it and knowing that my adventure was about to begin. I loaded my heavy bags into his car and began the drive back to his apartment, barely understanding a word he said. I’ll admit I was very exhausted and terrified, and I couldn't help but think, “what have I done?” The jetlag, culture shock and anxiety hit me immediately, but I just as immediately fell in love with Valencia in the next few days.

I gained a profound ability to be independent during the wonderful four months of living with the Illueca family. I was very spoiled with having two host sisters, ages 24 and 26, as well as the most adorable dog, loving host parents, grandparents next door, and a seemingly never-ending abundance of extended family always walking in. I quickly got used to speaking with the family, and getting used to each individual's voice, intonation, and accent. I went from scarcely muttering a sentence on the first day, to having long conversations during the lead-singer in a famous Spanish band in the 80s, so I enjoyed a very musical experience, compared to some of my friends.

From weekend trips to Madrid, Porto, Lisbon, Vienna, and Amsterdam, I gained such an appreciation for many different cultures and sites. I had never been to Europe before, and I tried to experience everything I could. I ate delicious food, swam at beautiful beaches, and traveled to incredible historical sites. However, my best memories come from Valencia. During the day trips with most of the program, I was able to tour incredible parts of Valencia that I never knew existed, all while creating long-lasting memories and friendships. Unlike a majority of the students from UVA, I came to Spain knowing no one, and not having a roommate. I was worried that everyone would already have their friends and not want to include me, but I never experienced that. Every person I met was so kind and welcoming, and we all just wanted to learn and explore together.

I am so proud to have worked so hard in classes and communicate with native speakers that I now feel so comfortable speaking in a non-English environment. I gained such an appreciation for the beauty of the language and phrases, and I had the most amazing professors. Valencian people are so proud of their heritage and their language, and I feel so proud to have learned from them. Valencia will always hold a special place in my heart, and I cannot wait to return someday.
    
Name: Caitlin Dougherty
Status: Junior
Major: Microbiology
Hometown: Farmington, Michigan
Program: MSU-UVA in Valencia in Spain