Orientation with CIEE

June 13, 2017

The first thing that stuck out to me about Seville was that it is a very old and historical city with many traditions. Unlike many other European cities, that display brand new skyscrapers adjacent to centuries-old landmarks, Seville has maintained its original style. It is not a city where you see many restaurant chains, malls, or big pharmacies that typically line the sidewalks of American cities. On any given street it is very apparent that you’re in a city steeped with culture and history. From a first impression, however, it doesn’t seem like there is as extensive of a public transportation system as I’ve grown used to in Boston. All of these things will provide a decent amount for me to get accustomed to (and I’m sure grow to love) during my study abroad!

For the orientation, first they show us around Seville. This includes not only the residence that I’m staying in and the surrounding area, but also how to use public transportation to get to and from where I’m living and where I’m taking classes. After the initial tours, we had a couple different sessions about health and safety during our stay here, our academic schedules, and registering for classes. This involved having a Spanish conversation with a CIEE staff member to make sure that you would be placed in the proper level of Spanish class. The last part of orientation was a breakout session where everyone got to choose between a few different tours that highlight different cultural aspects and areas of Seville. What stood out to me the most about the orientation is just how different my daily life here will be from living in Boston, due mainly to the differences between the local cultures of Seville and Boston.

Written By

Kyle McCrosson

I wanted to do this particular program because I have always wanted to continue my education in Spanish and hopefully become fluent (or close at least) and just haven’t had room in my regularly scheduled semesters to take classes, so what better opportunity than living in Spain for almost 2 months? As a music major, I am especially excited to explore the musical culture of Seville and what new styles/dances/traditions that comes with. Another reason I’m studying abroad is that I’m hoping that the immersion will really help my Spanish out and hopefully push me a little more than just a traditional Spanish class in a classroom setting.