I have always dreamt of studying abroad in college since I started high school. When it came time to choose a school, study abroad opportunities were a big reason I chose Michigan State. They offered a wide variety of places to go.

I didn't know what to expect before I left in the beginning of January. I had no idea that I was about to begin the most amazing four months of my life. I was filled with so much excitement and nerves. When we landed in Barcelona, it was really early in the morning, and I left the airport with my roommate and two other girls in our program that we didn't know at the time. Those girls would soon become our best friends there.

When we got to the apartment we would be staying in, it exceeded my expectations. We had the most beautiful place with balconies that looked out to the main street and one in the back looking over a garden. I lived there with six other girls who all became some of my best friends over those four months.

People always talk about how many countries they would visit and all they planned to do, but I didn't really know what to expect when going on these small trips. We quickly learned that traveling, especially in big groups, took more planning and effort than we anticipated. Still, I managed to visit around 11 different countries and countless cities during my time. I loved traveling and seeing different cultures and lifestyles.

One thing two of my friends and I did was stay in Barcelona for a whole month. Our other roommates and friends still traveled but we wanted to spend more time in our home city. Some of my most memorable memories are from that time. That time allowed me to connect with the city. Walking the streets, discovering hidden gems, and experiencing life more like a local rather than a tourist. At the end of our time so many people said they wished they spent more time in Barcelona, and I'm so grateful that I did.

Before I left, I knew it was going to be one of the greatest decisions of my life, but I didn't realize just how life changing it would be. Since coming back, there hasn't been a day I haven't thought about going back. Leaving was truly one of the most heartbreaking things I experienced. That may sound dramatic but it's true. Barcelona became my new normal and coming back was an emotional and tough adjustment. I'm coming back home to the same place but I'm not the same person I was when I left. I've learned, grown, and experienced so much during my time in Europe. I am eternally grateful for all that came with going abroad.

I left there with no regrets and wouldn't change my time for anything. Barcelona now holds a special place in my heart, even though it left a hole when I had to leave knowing the experience I've always dreamed of is over. I can't wait for the day when I step back into Barcelona and relive my experiences there that changed my life forever.

Name: Avery Gilbert
Status: Sophomore
Major: Advertising Management
Hometown: Glen Ridge, New Jersey
Program: CEA CAPA Barcelona, Spain - Psychology