Culture Shock

• Culture Shock. Have you experienced any moments so far when you have felt uncomfortable or lost? Were there any moments when you felt “at home”? Describe. Next, read the culture shock article provided by program director. Have you experienced any of the stages of culture shock? Give examples. In your opinion, is culture shock a positive or negative experience? Explain your opinion.

So far, I have been trying my best to embrace the Spanish culture. I really am enjoying this experience even though I am out of my comfort zone. All of the cities are so beautiful, especially Toledo and Granada. Most of the people here are very friendly and like to have conversation with you. Other times, I feel like some people are a tad upset that I try to speak the language but I do so imperfectly. Well maybe not upset but more or less annoyed. For example, when I was ordering a drink at a place the waitor was really annoyed that I was asking him about the types of drinks they have. When I wasn't sure what he said, he walked away from me because he had other costumers. I felt pretty uncomfortable that he didn't care to take a few more minutes with my order but I understood why. Luckily, there was a nice person next to me who spoke both English and Spanish and told me about the drinks and how those kinds of places don't provide drink lists. He also taught me a new word, una malquerida, because that was the name of a beer they served. 

Mi Señora de la apartamienta is very kind and talks very slow so Jack and I can understand. At first, I could tell that all of us were nervous and we even explained that to her. I understand most of what she says during our meals but sometimes I feel uncomfortable asking her to repeat because she tries really hard to get her points across. it is in this moments when I feel lost and wish I was more up to par with my listening comprehension. Spaniards use different dialects than other forms of Spanish so this could be another reason why I feel a little lost sometimes, also I have lots to learn. It is also hard when I say something but it is a little incorrect so la Señora does not understand. For example, I was trying to ask if it was okay to flush after every use in the bathroom and she thought I was asking how to flush. Our Señora has a grandson named Miguel and he is 20 years old. We have hardly talked to him and I felt uncomfortable when we saw him for the first time and he hardly saw us. We just got keys to the apartment today and our Señora asked Miguel to show us how to use them so that was another chance to introduce ourselves. He talked very quickly and it was difficult to understand what he said about his studies and what his major was. I will have to ask again about his major. 

Overall, my culture shock has been a great experience. I am very open minded about the culture and I like to learn about it. I enjoying talking to my host family during dinner and seeing how I can communicate to the best of my ability. Although, it is a challenge experience but I know that this is the best way to learn. I would say I am in the stage of euphoria but I hope that this is not just a stage for me. I hope that I remain motivated to push outside my comfort zone and learn as much as I can.