Lucia during the VV meeting/ Photographer: Eve Eon
Gray: What was the biggest cultural shock?
Lucia: For all exchange students, adjusting to a new way of life is always hard at first. One of the things that surprised me the most was the prices. There are many products that in Spain normally cost less than half and taxes are included in all prices. Also, the meals are much healthier than I thought!
G: What has been the hardest adjustment for you?
L: That’s a good question! One of the things that was most difficult for me to adapt to was the meals schedules. Since I was very little, I’m used to eating around 2 or 3 in the afternoon, and having dinner around 9 at night. Now my schedules are totally different from the ones I had in Spain and, although it is difficult, I am enjoying this new stage.
G: What is one thing you miss about Spain and one thing you will miss about orcas?
L: I love my country, but Orcas has stolen my heart. It’s a beautiful island surrounded by forest and sea, full of lakes and wonderful people. It is true that I would put my family, friends and my cat first, but if you ask me for one thing, I would say that it is totally the food! I miss the croquetas, the Jamón and the Cocido! On the other hand, when he returns to Spain in a few months, I will greatly miss all the wonderful people I have been lucky enough to meet. But let’s not forget the incredible landscapes that I contemplate for hours and hours without getting tired.
G: Any advice for future exchange students?
L: Don’t be afraid to try new things! This is a once in a lifetime experience and you will never have the opportunity to experience it again. The fact of boarding a plane thousands of kilometers from your home is brave. Getting into a new life from scratch is a big step that few dare to take, and you have to enjoy it the most!
G: How have you immersed yourself in the US or Orcas culture?
L: Personally, I love meeting new people! From day one, I started talking to people and making friends. Also, I did volleyball, which helped me make a lot of new friends.