My Time in Segovia So Far

It is wild to think that it is already week five and that week six is about to start. This program is going by faster than I imagined, and my time here has taught me many lessons as well as things I potentially want/need in my future. The biggest culture shift I have experienced is how things open later in the day and that people tend to have dinner around nine or eleven at night. In the United States around that time, I would usually be asleep, but I have adapted to the nightlife and have gotten used to resting a little during the day before going out again. Segovia and other parts of Spain are walkable, which is great considering my disability. Places are super accessible, and I am able to get around on my own for the most part. Before this program, I already knew prior to graduating from UO that I would have to live in a walkable and accessible city—this program has proven that to me furthermore that it is definitely a must. 

Image Ariel posing in front of Parque de Madrid

Traveling around Spain has been fun and exciting. The buses and trains are super convenient when it comes to getting around; I’d, of course, encourage people to travel in groups before trying to go solo since everything being in a different language can be challenging and the stations are quite large. I am trying to grow throughout this experience. Whether that is trying new foods or improving my Spanish, it is important to me that I learn something new about myself, the environment, and overall, the world. This program has been the best decision I have made thus far of 2025. 

Image Catedral de Segovia lit up with glowing lights at night

Ariel Carreon, Diverse Ducks Ambassador

Intermediate Spanish Immersion in Segovia