Skylar Mihalik

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?

I am relaxing until I start my internship with Travelers insurance company in June. My study abroad experience helped me get this internship before I even went to Spain. My experience in Barcelona has made me a stronger, more confident, and independent person. I learned that I can become close with people who are very different from my friends from home, that I can immerse myself in a new culture, and that I can explore the world and discover new things. I will never be the same again.

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

Spontaneous Adventures

Explain why you chose those words.

I felt many things I did while abroad were spontaneous. Going to Barcelona in general was spontaneous, and all of those spontaneous moments added up to be one great big adventure. The adventure of a lifetime.

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

Brunch and cake, my favorite food had to be chorizo sandwiches and patatas bravas.

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

My trip was the basque country. I think the whole weekend was very well organized, and I loved San Sebastian. I experience so much culture that weekend and it was great traveling with all the other students.

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

I think the site I would suggest would be Mt. Tibabido. Its really far but it is beautiful to hike, walk, or watch the sunrise.

If you had one perfect day in Barcelona where would you go, and what would you do?

I would go to the beach near Pouble Nou, since it is less touristy, and enjoy the sun. I would then enjoy some traditional paella while overlooking the water.

What was something you were surprised to learn about Barcelona or Spain? Or what aspect of the country or city were you least expecting?

The surprising part was for me was how everything is closed from 3-5 and on Sundays. I didn’t think that that was possible.

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

Go and explore as much as you can. Do not waste a weekend inside. Also don’t always take the metro! WALK! You see so much more.

Why was Barcelona SAE the right program for you?

It includes so much, and having the option for living in a homestay is one of the best things. The weekend and day trips I think are the icing on the cake!