March 10, 2017

The perks of being an exchange student

¡Hola a todos!

We are already halfway through the semester and most of you are now working on your midterm exams. For this reason, we thought that this would be the perfect moment to cheer you up by reminding you about some of the reasons why studying abroad is awesome!

  1. Learning a foreign language. Whether you like languages or not, being able to speak a language other than English is a great advantage. While studying abroad, you do not only learn a new language in class but also in real-life situations! This means that you get to learn words that you would never learn in a language class, including some slang words that locals use all the time.
  2. Getting to know other cultures. When you are abroad, you come across different traditions and customs that can help you understand how people in other countries think. The best thing is that, if you like them, you can incorporate them to your daily life when you come back home!

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  1. Making new friends. Being abroad and speaking other languages means that you do not only meet other Americans, but also international students and local people. And having friends all around the world is the best excuse to travel.

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  1. Getting out of your comfort zone. It is only when you try new things, when you really learn and acquire new skills. Being abroad does not only contribute to your resume, it also helps you to learn more about yourself and to become a more independent and resolute person.
  2. Doing new things every day. One of the best things of studying abroad is being able to answer ‘two hours ago’ or ‘today’ when asked ‘when was the last time you did something for the first time?’. In addition, when you come back home, you will have lots of stories to tell your family and friends.

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  1. Appreciating your family and friends even more. Spending a time away from your usual social environment helps you reflect on how much you value them.

Can you think of  more advantages of being an exchange student?

Have a fantastic weekend!

September 24, 2015

Urban groups in Sevilla

After three weeks in Sevilla, UNE students have had the chance to explore the city and start to understand Sevilla’s culture. When it comes to talking about culture and a new place, the very first things that come to your mind are: history, monuments, the local language, art, or food. But what about locals, their appearance, and their lifestyle? Have you realized not everyone looks the same?

Twenty-four hours after their arrival in Sevilla, most of the students had the same opinion about sevillanos: “most people are really stylish”, “they seem to be dressed up all the time”, and - what impact me the most - “we don’t think there are different cultural groups here, everyone looks similar.” Then, it is time to show them some of the several urban groups that can be found in this city full of contrasts.

The first are what we call canis. Canis wear gold (or fake gold jewelry) - the more gold they wear, the better. Nike sneakers and athletic clothes mark their style. They also love baseball caps and piercings. They like to get their cars pimped. If you see them, try not to get into trouble.

The second urban group are the góticos or gothic. They are similar to those in the USA: they wear black clothes and like pale skin. They may also have some piercings.

Sevillanitos make up an interesting group. These are (mostly) men who are really proud of their Spanish/Andalusian origins - that is the reason why they wear clothes with Spanish flags. They love buttoned shirts, polos, and boat shoes. You will distinguish them by their sideburns and their hair covered in gel.

The last urban group are hipsters. Hipster fashion is international. In the city, you will find some places where they love to go. Vintage stores, libraries or art galleries and restaurants are some of their favorites. Beards are a must-have for men, and tattoos are also accepted.

In short, whenever you walk in the city, pay attention to the people and culture around you and you will realize not everybody looks the same.

These are just descriptions, written in a funny way. Please, do not feel offended and enjoy the Spanish life and its people!

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