I have decided to start a blog to help my family & friends stay updated on my life as I take on the big Spanish city, Madrid. On April 9th I found out that I was accepted to the Master in Multicultural and Bilingual Education program through the Universidad de Alcala. I'll be flying out on September 1st on a one way ticket (eek!) and returning sometime after my Master's program ends on June 30th next year. My two friends Lindsay and Erin are accompanying me on this grand adventure, and our first challenge is to locate an apartment in Madrid.
So far the apartment hunt has been a little soul crushing.. it seems like most student housing is done through vague websites or word of mouth (which is a little difficult when you're 4,000 miles away). Last week we were confident we had found at least a reasonable option through a posting on Craigslist Madrid. The apartment is located right in the city center of Madrid with utilities included, etc. for a landlord who is renting while working in London. After a series of emails it became apparent that it is pretty much a big fat scam and is just trying to have us send 1200 E in "deposits and rent" through Western Union. puhlease.
So with 23 days left before takeoff I am dealing with a strange mix of feelings. As I'm shopping, working, saying goodbye's, and doing all my "lasts" I really can't say whether the emotion of excitement, nervousness, or panic is coming out on top. The only way I can explain it is the feeling you get while riding to the top of a roller coaster.. I can't change my mind at this point about my direction, but my heart is beating in anticipation of the rush I'm about to experience. I know its about to be the best thing I've ever done, but it doesn't change the fact that I'm scared to death for the first drop. So whether I have to laugh, cry, or scream at the top of my lungs to get over the fear I'm going to do this because I know I won't regret one single second.
iHasta Luego!
