Interview of the Month

Student Studying for 8 Weeks in Lisbon

Why did you decide to study abroad? Why did you choose to do it here?
I`ve been always curious about other cultures, and I had the chance of travelling around many countries of the world as a tourist. I’ve decided to study abroad because I felt that I wasn`t getting the most of every experience outside the States. On the other hand my mother´s ancestors were Portuguese, that’s why I had no doubt on choosing my destination.

What did you know about Portugal before coming?
I had always been in touch with Portuguese culture thanks to my mom and grandmother; they even taught me how to cook some of Portugal’s typical dishes like roast cod or flan! So I had an overview of some of the highlights of the country, and places I should visit in Lisbon.

What were your thoughts before coming? Were you concerned about anything?
Mainly I was anxious because it was my first trip alone! On the other hand, I was worried about the language, because, although I`ve learned some words, I wasn`t capable of keeping a full conversation at that moment. I was also afraid of feeling homesick

What was the first thing that caught your attention?
IThe first thing that caught my attention was, everything in the city is on walking distance, even the airport is really close to the city! Even though I live close to the beach, I was also wondered by the sea, so different from the warm Caribbean waters of Florida!

How did you overcome the cultural shock? What was the most difficult thing for you to get used to?
Strangely I didn`t felt that shock everyone talks about, maybe because I’ve always been in touch with this culture. It can also be because people are so welcoming, kind and loving that they make you feel like you belong there, not as a stranger.

Have you gone out? What do you think about the nightlife here?
Lisbon has so many nightlife options that it is hard to stay home and not go out! Portuguese are night people and that is shown from the very beginning. The music is great and it invites you to party and have fun in the many pubs and nightclubs all over town.

Would you recommend this trip?
I would not only recommend it, I want to come back myself any time soon!

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