So why Spain?

In 2009 I completed a three month volunteer placement in Cusco, Peru working at a disadvantaged primary school in the Sacred Valley. This was my first time over seas and was  the most incredible experience of my life.  was part of a group of 20 other Australians and we lived in small groups with local host families. Prior to leaving, I didn't know a word of Spanish, nor anything about the country I was about to call home.

I was supported by two excellent organisations;

Antipodeans Abroad - http://www.antipodeans.com.au/Home.htm

and

Peru's Challenge - http://www.peruschallenge.com/

When my volunteer placement came to an end, I traveled around Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina before returning to Australia. When I was overseas, I never once wanted to return home. In fact, I wished I could have stayed for another six months at least! After returning to Australia, I was extremely surprised to feel an intense homesickness and longing for Peru. I had fallen in love with Latin America and that was that.



Although initially enrolled in a double degree -  Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Psychology - I knew that this was no longer for me. In 2010 I began a Bachelor of International Studies majoring in Spanish. I've now  almost completed 2 years of Spanish study at university and have taken as many Spanish history and culture classes as possible.

My love for Hispanic culture is what is drawing me to Spain - to see where it all began. I feel nervous, excited, apprehensive and exhilarated at the prospect and know that despite all by preconceived notions, this trip will probably be like nothing I can imagine!

Adios, Clare xx