Words of Wisdom

There will always be shoulda, coulda, wouldvas when reflecting on the past. Nevertheless, I have very few regrets from my semester abroad. I really got everything out of it I wanted and it was amazing (if the last four months of exuberant blog posts didn't convey that). So to end, I want to offer my advice on studying abroad to anyone out there who finds it relevant:

(1) Take as many classes at local universities
(2) Take ALL your classes in Spanish (they are actually easier than the English ones and they help your listening, reading and writing IMMENSELY)
(3) Live in a residencia, it may not be glamorous but there is no better way to meet and become close friends with international students (my one mini regret was that I didn't, although I still was really lucky with my living situation)
(4) Really try and stay away from American scene. You didn't spend all that time and money to hang out with other Americans, there is plenty of time for that when you get back.
(5) Take advantage of your new environment to let yourself go. Be as friendly and open minded as possible and don't be afraid to take risks and make a conscience effort to get out of your comfort zone.
(6) Do an intercambio program. Its awkward at first but really rewarding in the end.
(7) Respect the local norms and customs. May sound obvious, but you would be amazed at how disrespectful and arrogant many american students are (and then they complain that Spainards are mean or rude, ugh)
(8) Try to fight the inevitable deterioration of your Spanish when you return by finding channels of immersion, like spanish-language television, music, the language social networking site, Palabea. 
(9) Keep a blog ; ) not only is it an easy way to keep everyone at home updated, it gives you a great time capsule of your experiences that will always be with you.