Hola from Madrid!

Hi I am Marissa, and I am studying at ICADE in Madrid. I am so thrilled to be here and feel so fortunate to have this opportunity. I can't wait to share my experiences with you. I encourage any of you who are freshman or sophomores and are considering (even slightly) going abroad to go for it! I promise you won't regret it.

I just arrived in Madrid 4 days ago. Although I have yet to be here for a full week, my experience so far has been wonderful. I've already met so many other students who have finished a semester here and want to move here, or have done just that. For instance, the other night I met a guy from Connecticut who studied abroad in Madrid for a semester and loved it so much that he is now pursuing his masters at a university here. The quality of life here is just extremely high. The madrileños truly enjoy every moment of every day and it makes living in this city such a pleasant experience.

I am living with a host family during my time here, rather than in dorms. I live with a señora, whose children are both grown, so basically it is just her and me sharing the house. Her house is very tiny, as are all houses in Madrid, and we share one bathroom. The washing machine is in the kitchen and there is no dryer. However, I don't mind it at all. The house is always immaculate and my señora fixes me breakfast and dinner every day. She doesn't speak any english at all, so I am forced to speak spanish with her at all times. This was very difficult on the first day when I was exhausted from flying and didn't have two brain cells left to rub together; however, with each passing day communication becomes easier. I really hope to be fluent by the time my semester ends.

I spend a lot of time outside of my house, as do most madrileños. This is partly because houses are so small, and also because madrileños tend to be very social. It seems that rather than spend their money on grand houses and huge cars, the people here prefer to spend their time shopping, going out, and socializing. People dress very well here, and the women especially always look put together. I don't think I have seen anyone wearing sweatpants. Madrid is also definitely a walking city, with few cars and a lot of pedestrians. Every morning the streets are packed with men and women walking to work in their suits. All of the walking ties into the healthy lifestyle mentality that is prevalent here. The portions served at meals are small and light, and prepared with the freshest ingredients. For instance, my breakfast the other day consisted of a small toasted baguette drizzled with olive oil and fresh crushed tomatoes. A little odd for breakfast (I am used to sweet oatmeal or yogurt and fruit), but it was delicious. For dinner, I have had chicken and vegetables, cold bean soup, and fruit for dessert. With all the walking and such light meals, I definitely understand why there are very few overweight people here. America could take a lesson, ha.

I haven't started class yet, but Monday marks the start of our semester. More updates to come!

Ciao!