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Culture Shock, Mercado Central, and Fútbol
Today we also played fútbol. To play along with Valencian team rivalries in professional league soccer games, we opted to play under team names Valencia and Levante. The rivalry between these two teams has gone on for ages, and playing to pay homage made the game feel a little more real. We were immersed in Valencian culture, and being able to feel the profound sense of love and appreciation for the identity of Valencia was one of my own personal goals in the first place. With an underdog win from Levante, and a can of orange soda, I was excited to feel like I belonged. Through living in the moment, the stresses of homesickness weren't so apparent. I still miss my family and friends. This means that the people who I know and love in the USA are truly valuable to me. That said, I have been given the opportunity of a lifetime to immerse myself in a new environment and appreciate a new culture for all it has to offer. From meeting amazing friends in Purdue Promise, to hanging with the instructors and ISA staff, I know that I do not trek through my uncharted cultural waters alone. This knowledge alone can put my mind at ease.
Today was a fulfilling day filled with learning and cultural exchange. Starting with a hearty breakfast at my homestay, I made my way to class through the picturesque streets of Valencia. In class, we delved into global issues, particularly focusing on the current challenges facing Spain. The discussion on advocacy as a powerful tool for change resonated with me, emphasizing the importance of staying informed and acting in the face of good causes. After class, I had the opportunity to spend time at the Colegio Nuestra Señora de Loreto, playing games with the students and learning about the local holiday, Fallas. The exchange of information and cultural insights was enriching, highlighting the importance of cross-cultural communication, and understanding. The students' curiosity about my experiences in America sparked thoughtful discussions about education and societal differences. Returning to my homestay, I enjoyed a delicious lunch with Pau and Alberto, members of my host family. Pau's pasta carbonara was a culinary delight, despite Alberto's reservations. A trip to Mercado Central with Alberto provided a glimpse into the vibrant local market scene, where we picked up fresh fruits before heading back home. After a relaxing break at home, I headed out to the Jardí Botànic at the University of Valencia with my friends Aiden, Elijah, Halen, and Jhalil. I was excited to explore the vast array of plant species from around the world. As I walked through the gardens, I was blown away by the great variety of plants around the gardens. With over 4500 species from around the globe, we were treated to a sensory overload of sights, smells, and textures. I was amazed by the trees that were older than 180 years. It was amazing to see how these ancient giants had been carefully preserved over the years. One of the highlights of my visit was exploring the historic buildings that date back to the end of the 19th century. These structures were designed specifically for cultivating and preserving exotic plants from around the world. The incredible architecture and beautifully maintained gardens made for a truly unforgettable experience. After a day filled with wonder and discovery, I headed out for dinner with the rest of the group. We ended up splitting into two groups and opted for a cozy little restaurant in the heart of the city of Valencia. The food was delicious, and my patatas bravas was a standout favorite. The flavors were bold and aromatic, and everything was surprisingly affordable. As we made our way back to our homestay, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. From playing with kids and learning about celebration of Fallas to exploring the botanical gardens and enjoying a delicious dinner with friends, this day had been truly unforgettable. I couldn't wait to see what other adventures lay ahead during my time in Spain.
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