Emily Heydinger

What are you up to these days? Have you graduated? Are you working? How did your experience in Barcelona have an impact on your life?

The experience opened my eyes and my mind to the world around me and how different people live. It allowed me to experience life in a new way and be very flexible and versatile as well as adaptable.

If you were to sum up your Barcelona experience in one to two words, what would you say? My Barcelona Experience is…

Self-Growth

Explain why you chose those words.

This entire experience has allowed me to grow as a person. I’ve discovered who I am when I am not in my comfort zone. I have gained confidence, become more open minded, and learned how to deal with stressful situations. When you are placed in a new environment with new people, you are forced to figure out how to act and realize what you do or how you act, especially because it’s not always similar to those around you.

What was your favorite place to eat in Barcelona? Favorite food?

Everything was delicious! My favorite restaurants included Flax & Kale (try the tacos!) and Brunch & Cake (the coconut bread is a must). I can’t give a favorite food because it was all so delicious. I would definitely recommend trying new things every time you go out because there are so many amazing options.

What was your favorite tour, day trip, or cultural activity? Why?

My favorite was the cooking class. It was so fun and allowed me to experience culture first hand and what went into the food/what ingredients are used. Definitely worth the time.

Is there a site in Barcelona that you would recommend to future students that may be a little more “off the beaten path”?

Tibidabo has an incredible view…I almost didn’t go but I am so glad I did. It’s a little out of the way because it is not in the city like everything else but it is so awesome.

What is one piece of advice that you have for future students coming to Barcelona?

Don’t stick to going to the beach every day. There is so much to see and do and you will regret it if you don’t experience it all. Definitely take time to relax on the beach but make sure you take advantage of every opportunity possible to explore and be adventurous.