Future Students: What not to do in Salamanca or Spain

Prior to entering the 2010 Salamanca Study Abroad program, I had very little feedback from previous students, and the information that I did hear was all positive. I feel that it is pivotal for future students to be cognizant of both the good and bad of the Salamanca program. Given this, in this blog, I will offer a few suggestions for future students that will include things that they should and should not do. These helpful suggestions will enable future students to maximize their time in Spain, while avoiding certain things that could potentially affect their level of enjoyment. So, 2011 Salamanca students and beyond, brace yourselves for the information that you are about to receive!

In Salamanca, you will quickly notice the distinctions in studying areas and space. At Michigan, we are accustomed to studying late in the UGLI or Grad, free of any disruptions. However, the library here in Salamanca closes relatively early, which leaves students with few options of places to study late at night. The point that I am trying to make here is that you should not place your studying and work on a back burner because you do not want to do work in a cafe or even a bar. I’ll be the first to admit that I was very irritated when I realized that I had to study at a cafe in order to use their WI-FI. However, after a short time, you will get over the initial reluctancy and you will adapt to the environment. Along with this, when you do go places to use their WI-FI, it is necessary that you or one of your study partners buys something. You definitely do not want to upset the management, especially considering the fact that you are a visitor in a foreign country.

Café Y Té was frequent place for studying

Next, the work load in Salamanca may contrast drastically from the amount of work you would typically receive in Ann Arbor. From my experience, there have been some days when I have had much free time because I only had a few assignments, and there have also been days when I have been submerged in homework and studying. So, time management will be a critical thing during your time here in Spain. Make sure that you do not spend too much time doing other things such as partying, taking siestas, or hanging out with friends. In other words, avoid anything that is too time consuming, or anything that will effect your academics. For example, to force myself to do work, I go to the Cursos Internacionales building everyday to complete all my studying and assignments. Once you arrive in Salamanca, you too will find your own niche and develop your own schedule.

Backpack always on my bed (STUDY, STUDY, STUDY!)

The night life in Spain will also be a large part of your experience. Bonding with fellow students in the Michigan program as well as other students that you will meet from around the world while going out is extremely beneficial. I have met people this Summer while going out that I will maintain friendships with for the rest of my life. With this, there are a few measures that you must follow to remain safe while going out. First and foremost, never go out alone anywhere in Spain. As Americans, we all stick out as foreigners, and many times we can be pinpointed as easy targets. Plus, the bigger the group, the more fun you will have. Next, try to bring a designated amount of cash out with you, leaving purses, wallets, ID’s etc at home. These are items that you definitely do not want to lose during an eventful night. Lastly, try to hang out with people that live close to you because you can walk back with these people as the night draws to an end. If you practice all of these things, you will be safe and enjoy going out.

Friends going out

On the weekends, it is very common for students to travel to cities all around the country. For example, on my trip, I have traveled to Lisboa, Portugal, Toledo, Sevilla, Granada, and Madrid. There is nothing wrong with traveling on the weekend, but you must be very attentive and take certain measures. Always follow the orders of the instuctor or guide leading the excursion, even though you may not want to do what they ask of you. Next, men wear your wallets in your front pocket and women try not try bring purses out wherever you go. Pick-pocketers are over-flowing in tourist type places. My roommate from Colorado told me about a kid on his trip who was robbed because he had his wallet out, making him very vulnerable for a thieve. Lastly, only go to tourist areas because the people tend to be warmer than in places with more locals. By doing all of these things, you will definitely be safe and able to enjoy your trips!

Granada

La Alhambra

The list of things that I have compiled about what you should not do in Salamanca or Spain is only the beginning. You will quickly catch on and learn about the things that you just should not do. I know the things that I have mentioned may seem a bit overwhelming, but they really are not. Just have fun and make the right decision, and your time in Salamanca will be the best of your life!

FUN IN THE SUN!