Meet Justin - SYA Spain 2026
Extracurriculars Abroad: I rowed (crew), like I do back home and was able to continue practicing my sport at a high level. My CN Helios rowing team teammates pushed me to be a better rower and person.
Favorite SYA Class: My favorite class was History and Politics in Today's Society. Álvaro was the best teacher. He was kind and fun to be around while still maintaining the class in focus and on topic. He had an engaging way of teaching, and his passion for doing so was apparent.
Favorite Food in Spain: This is a predictable answer, but my favorite food was paella. Whenever I ordered one, or whenever I had one my eyes lit up and I felt like my stomach doubled in size as I dreamt of a third plate of the delicious dish, while still on my first.
How did SYA impact your college search process?
I was originally considering schools strictly closer to me, but after being abroad, I feel more confident in my ability to live alone, and my independence. I then added several schools to my application either across the country, or in other countries, thus expanding my reach, confidence, and possibilities.
Do you have a favorite memory with your host family?
Upon my arrival to Zaragoza, I had heard all about my family and their uncles from my host mom. When I finally arrived at the highly anticipated extended host family diner in October, I was nervous as to what they would think but was immediately greeted with hugs and laughter. As we sat around the table talking, and eating, it felt as though I had been in the family for years. I didn't feel out of place, I didn't feel singled out, although I was getting a lot of questions about my life back home. I am proud to say that my Spanish family feels like a second family to me.
What did you learn abroad that surprised you?
I learned to be me. I know that sounds cliché, but I learned to not be shy. I learned that it was okay to try whatever and fail at it, or succeed in triumph. I laughed and cried, succeeded and failed, but I did it all while being unquestionably me, without the fear of being judged, surrounded by such close friendships, I found my confidence. I went up to strangers and started random conversations, many of which changed my perspective. I explored and lived on my own, without being shy of my personality, and I lived my experience to the fullest.
