Bella Whitehair is a junior majoring in psychology with a minor in social science forensics. She has Navajo heritage and grow up in Tuba City. Being surrounded by the Navajo culture and traditions influenced her perspective and sense of belonging. This helped her immerse herself in the traditions and culture of Spain, where she lived for one semester. During her time in Seville, she learned how words have different meaning depending on the region, discovered a specific tradition that could have been misconstrued if she had not had a history lesson from her host mother and embraced the balance between studying, working and living life.
Where did you study?
I studied at Universidad Pablo de Olavide in Seville, Spain. Although the university was not situated in the heart of Seville, it was located approximately 40 minutes from my home in Nervión, where I lived with my host mom, her two sons and my boyfriend, who I was fortunate enough to study abroad with. Despite the distance, the daily commute was straightforward and manageable. Each morning, I would walk about 15 minutes to the metro station, take a 15-minute metro ride and then walk another 10 minutes to the specific area of the campus designated for international students. The routine quickly became familiar, allowing me to navigate the city with ease.
Why did you choose that country for your study abroad program?
From the outset of my college journey, I aspired to study abroad in Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom or Spain. I chose Spain due to my prior experience studying Spanish in both high school and college, as well as my personal connection to the country through family history. Immersing myself in the language was a crucial factor in my decision, as I remain committed to achieving fluency. Among the study abroad options available through NAU, Seville stood out the most. The city’s stunning landscapes immediately captivated my attention. Seville’s location in southern Spain offered the advantage of accessibility to other regions, which allowed for a broader exploration of the country.
What class(es) or research did you complete while abroad and for how long?
I enrolled in four courses: two psychology classes, a history class and a film class. I selected these courses to complement my academic interests while providing flexibility, allowing me to immerse myself fully in the experience. NAU strategically designs study abroad programs with a lighter academic load to encourage students to engage with their host country beyond the classroom. I had the opportunity to balance my studies with exploring Seville and other regions of Spain to enrich my academic and personal growth. The duration of my time abroad was one semester, providing enough time to get an understanding and knowledge of the subjects I studied.
How did you fund your study abroad experience?
I funded my study abroad experience through a combination of tuition, personal savings and family support. I was enrolled in an NAU-affiliated program; my tuition remained the same as if I were studying on campus, since I paid in-state tuition. For housing expenses, my parents used my 529 college savings plan. For personal spending I opened a credit card, which I used primarily for booking flights and other travel-related expenses. I also maintained a personal savings account to pay off the credit card. Additionally, my parents contributed to my living expenses by transferring a set amount from my 529 savings each month, helping me cover necessities during my time abroad. I also made sure to withdraw a set amount of cash from local bank ATMs using my debit card to ensure I always had euros on hand for transactions in Seville and other travel destinations that use euros. This method allowed me to avoid high fees and gave me the flexibility to pay for smaller purchases or places that didn’t accept cards. This financial approach allowed me to focus on both my academics and my cultural experiences while still managing a budget.
What was your language-learning process?
Before arriving in Spain, I had studied Spanish in both high school and college, which provided me with a foundational understanding of the language. I was comfortable with basic communication and could navigate day-to-day interactions, such as asking for directions or ordering food, especially if someone didn’t speak English. Once in Seville, I lived with a host family and my host mom spoke both Spanish and English. This bilingual environment allowed my boyfriend and me to practice Spanish while helping her improve her English. While I was able to manage most situations, there were times when I encountered unfamiliar vocabulary or phrases, for which I would rely on a translator app. Fortunately, I never found myself completely unable to communicate. My host mom was always there to assist with language barriers, offering guidance when needed and ensuring I felt confident engaging in conversations. I also formed a friendship with a fellow student from New Mexico who was Mexican and fluent in Spanish. Having her as a friend was incredibly helpful, especially when we were out together or with a group of friends. She often assisted with translating or clarifying things I didn’t fully understand, making it easier for me to engage in conversations and navigate situations where my language skills were still developing. This immersive experience significantly improved my language skills.
Can you tell us about a humorous language-related situation you encountered?
One of the most humorous language-related moments I experienced while studying abroad happened when my host mom took the time to educate my boyfriend and me on the many different Spanish curse words and their variations. What made it especially entertaining was learning how the same word could take on completely different meanings depending on the context, tone, or even the region of Spain. She enthusiastically explained the nuances of each phrase, ensuring we understood when and how they were used—whether in frustration, humor or casual conversation. The lesson quickly turned into a lighthearted and laughter-filled discussion, as she provided examples and had us practice saying them in different scenarios. It was both an amusing and insightful experience that not only expanded my Spanish vocabulary but also gave me a glimpse into the cultural humor and expressiveness of the language.
What expectations or preconceived notions did you have about your chosen country?
Before arriving in Spain, I had certain expectations based on prior knowledge and past experiences visiting other European countries. I was aware that Spain had a vibrant and lively social culture, particularly when it came to nightlife and social gatherings, which seemed more prominent than what I was accustomed to. Additionally, I had the impression that Spaniards held themselves to high standards in terms of personal appearance and fashion. From what I had observed in other parts of Europe, I expected people in Spain to dress more formally and put-together in their daily lives compared to the more casual style I was used to. These preconceived notions shaped my initial perspective and influenced how I prepared for my time abroad.
How has your experience been compared to those perceptions?
My experience in Spain largely aligned with my initial perceptions, but it also provided me with a deeper appreciation for the cultural differences. I enjoyed the more polished and put-together fashion standards in Spain, as dressing more formally felt refreshing compared to the casual norms in the U.S. However, I also came to appreciate the flexibility of casual dress back home. In terms of social life, I found the Spanish approach to work and leisure particularly meaningful. Although I did not participate in nightlife as frequently as some, I really enjoyed going out when I did and found those experiences to be incredibly fun and memorable. I have come to appreciate the aspects of how prominent it is to prioritize social life outside of work and school.
What aspects of your host country do you find the most different than your home country, and why?
One of the most noticeable differences I experienced in Spain was the meal schedule, which varied significantly from what I was accustomed to in the U.S. While breakfast was the most similar, typically eaten between 8-10 a. m., lunch and dinner followed a much later schedule. Lunch, often the largest meal of the day, was usually served between 2-4 p. whereas dinner was much lighter and eaten between 8-10 p. m. Additionally, I was introduced to “merienda,” a small meal or snack enjoyed before dinner, often consisting of tapas and drinks shared with friends or colleagues after work. This structured approach to meals emphasized social interaction and a slower pace of life, which I found to be a refreshing contrast to the often hurried-meals in the U.S. Beyond dining habits, I also observed cultural differences in social interactions. Spaniards take more time to build relationships, and while they may not be immediately warm or welcoming, they are not unfriendly either. Instead, their approach to forming connections feels more intentional—when they welcome someone into their social circle, it is a genuine and meaningful bond. This contrasts with American social culture, where connections tend to form more quickly, and friendliness is often expressed even in situations where it may not be entirely sincere. This difference in relationship-building gave me a new perspective on the value of authenticity in forming connections. One of the aspects I miss most is the emphasis on social connections—Spaniards prioritize time with family and friends after work and school, which I found to be a valuable and an enriching practice. I also appreciated the tradition of businesses closing for a few hours in the afternoon, allowing people to return home and enjoy lunch together. This experience gave me a newfound appreciation for the importance of slowing down and making time for personal connections. I admired the cultural mindset of working to live rather than living to work, as it emphasized balance and quality of life.
What local traditions or customs have you experienced?
During my time in Seville, I had the opportunity to experience two major spring festivals that are deeply rooted in the city’s culture: Semana Santa and Feria de Abril. Semana Santa, or Holy Week, takes place every year, though the exact dates vary as it is tied to Easter. This religious tradition is marked by elaborate processions that move through the city streets, featuring large, ornate floats carried by “costaleros.” These processions are accompanied by “nazarenos,” individuals dressed in hooded robes who walk in solemn devotion. The event is a deeply spiritual and visually striking experience, drawing both locals and visitors to witness. The second major event I experienced was Feria, a weeklong celebration that showcases Seville’s rich cultural heritage. The festival is known for its traditional flamenco dancing, vibrant music and the consumption of “pescaito,” a dish consisting of a variety of fried seafood. Women dress in elegant flamenco dresses, while men wear formal attire, contributing to the festival’s refined atmosphere. The event takes place in a massive fairground filled with “casetas”—decorated tents that serve food and drinks and host lively social gatherings. Some casetas are public, while others are private, requiring an invitation to enter. The festival spans for miles and immerses attendees in the traditions and hospitality of Andalusian culture. Experiencing these events firsthand allowed me to gain a deeper appreciation for Seville’s customs and the significance these celebrations hold for the local community.
What was your biggest culture-shock moment?
My biggest culture shock moment occurred during Semana Santa, when I saw the nazarenos for the first time. In Spain, there is a strong awareness of how these figures may be perceived by Americans, as their white hooded coverings closely resemble those worn by the Ku Klux Klan. However, the origins of the nazarenos predate the KKK by centuries, and in reality, it was the KKK that adopted a similar style, not the other way around. Before witnessing the processions, my host mom took the time to educate me on the historical and religious significance of Semana Santa and the role of the nazarenos. This context helped me understand and appreciate the tradition rather than feel uneasy about it. With this knowledge, I was able to immerse myself in the experience, learning about the deep devotion and artistry behind the processions. Ultimately, what initially felt like a moment of culture shock turned into one of the most fascinating and educational aspects of my time in Spain.
Tell us about your favorite—and/or least favorite—dish abroad.
One of my favorite dishes while studying abroad in Spain was paella, a staple of Spanish cuisine enjoyed across various regions. There are many variations of paella, including seafood, meat, vegetarian and squid ink (arroz negro). The traditional version combines both meat and seafood, creating a rich and flavorful dish. While I frequently had paella in Seville, one of the highlights of my culinary experience was trying the traditional version in Valencia, the birthplace of paella. Another favorite dish of mine was patatas bravas, a popular tapa consisting of crispy fried potatoes topped with a spicy tomato sauce and sometimes aioli. Though not a full meal, it was a go-to snack when out at bars or dining casually. One of my favorite places to eat was 100 Montaditos, a well-known franchise across Spain that specializes in small, open-faced sandwiches called montaditos. The chain has become so popular that it has expanded internationally, even reaching New York City. On the other hand, my least favorite dish was a seafood salad prepared by my host mom. While seafood is a common part of Spanish cuisine, and I generally enjoy it, this particular dish did not appeal to me. It is a traditional light meal often served for dinner, but I found that it wasn’t to my taste. Despite this, I appreciated the opportunity to try a variety of authentic Spanish dishes and immerse myself in the local culinary culture.
How has this study abroad experience influenced your personal, academic and career goals?
On a personal level, living in a different country challenged me to adapt to new cultural norms, navigate language barriers and step outside my comfort zone. It strengthened my independence, problem-solving skills and ability to engage with diverse perspectives. Experiencing a slower, more intentional way of life—particularly in how Spaniards prioritize social connections and work-life balance—has influenced how I approach my own daily routines and personal relationships. Academically, studying abroad reinforced my interest in global perspectives and cross-cultural communication. Taking courses in psychology, history and film in an international setting broadened my understanding of these subjects, as I was able to learn from different viewpoints and compare them to what I had studied in the U.S. Additionally, being immersed in the Spanish language has motivated me to continue improving my fluency as I recognize the value of bilingualism in both academic and professional settings. From a career standpoint, this experience has expanded my interest in working in a multicultural environment. Whether through global collaboration, travel-based opportunities or roles that require strong intercultural competency, I now see the benefits of engaging with diverse communities and perspectives in a professional capacity.
Has it opened new possibilities or changed your direction?
Yes, my study abroad experience has undoubtedly opened new possibilities and even shifted aspects of my direction. Before studying in Seville, I had a general idea of my academic and career goals but living abroad broadened my perspective on what is possible. One of the biggest changes has been my interest in incorporating international experiences into my future career. Whether through working abroad, pursuing opportunities with global organizations or engaging in cross-cultural collaboration, I now see the value of having an international component in my professional life. Experiencing a different work-life balance in Spain—where people prioritize social connections and personal well-being—has also made me reconsider how I want to structure my own career path. I now recognize the importance of finding a balance between professional ambition and personal fulfillment. Additionally, this experience has reinforced my desire to continue learning Spanish. While I had studied the language in high school and college, living in Spain showed me firsthand the importance of language skills in connecting with others and navigating different environments. This has motivated me to work toward fluency as I see it as a valuable skill both personally and professionally. Overall, studying abroad didn’t drastically change my goals, but it expanded them. It gave me a clearer sense of what I want in terms of cultural engagement, language proficiency and work-life balance, and it has made me more open to possibilities I hadn’t previously considered.