The best advice I have ever gotten was from a rat.

Soooooo. I’m in Spain (obviously). If you didn’t know that by now, you clearly haven’t been reading my blog (dad). And while I love it here SO much, there have definitely been ups and downs while I am here. Salamanca is a city that is incredible. I can’t even explain to you just how beautiful it is and how wonderful the atmosphere is. Especially being here during the Euro cup. Watching everyone go crazy when Spain won was probably one of the most fun experiences I have had here.

However, being here during one of the greatest seasons in Michigan has been hard, because I feel like I am missing out on a lot of things. For instance, the fourth of July or summer spent on Silver Beach. Sometimes it is really hard to not wish I was there with all the people I love most in the world.

And that is where the whole rat thing comes in. Bear with me for a second. So one time I watched this move called Ratatouille. And it is a GREAT movie. In that movie, there is a quote: “If you focus on what you left behind, you will never be able to see what lies ahead.” I watched this movie over 2 years ago now, but this quote still sticks with me.

Every time I find myself missing home, wishing I was there, groaning because another Spaniard has knocked me out of their way on the street, or feeling my stomach rumble at 6:00 because I am starving (Spaniards don’t eat dinner until after 9. It is killing me slowly..we all know I love food more than almost everything), I remind myself of this quote. So far, I have seen incredible things in Spain. I have seen a view more breathtaking than anything I could ever imagine (seriously, go to Toledo, Spain everyone. And bring me with you when you do because I want to go back). I have seen a new culture, met a new family and felt welcomed in a new town. I have met incredible friends, and I have seen things I could have never seen if I weren’t here. 

Overall, being in Spain has taught me some pretty amazing lessons and I couldn’t be happier that I am here. Taking this leap and studying abroad was one of the best decisions I have ever made and I strongly encourage everyone else to do the same! I am so thankful for everything I have seen here and all the beautiful experiences I have had; however, I am thanking Remy the rat for teaching me the most important lesson of all.

Bridget Valenti is a student contributor to the API Tumblr Blog, and is currently studying abroad in Salamanca, Spain.