Postcard From … Brandon Caldwell in Spain

By Amelia Heymann

Study abroad programs are a hallmark of Virginia Commonwealth University’s commitment to experiential and global education. “Postcard From …” is an occasional VCU News series that connects with students for insight into the academic, cultural and life lessons they are learning amid their travels.

Give us a quick personal bio.

I’m from Spotsylvania County near Fredericksburg, and I’m in my final semester at VCU majoring in urban planning and regional studies in the Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs. In Bilbao, Spain, one course I’m taking is Soccer In Spain, which covers the introduction, culture, politics and history of the sport in the country. My second course is Sustainable Urbanism, Infrastructure and Energy in Spain, and it focuses on sustainable environmental practices and how cities can be more sustainable for current and future residents.

Why did you choose this location and program?

I had lots of interest in how Spain specifically handles renewable energy, as the country is mentioned often for the presence of windmills and solar energy production. Our professor, Dr. Damian Pitt, is also very involved with renewable energy in the Richmond area, so I thought it would be best to learn from someone who has so much experience with the topic.

What do you hope to learn or gain by studying abroad?

Just learning more about the culture and outlook of other countries in regard to planning. The U.S. is completely different for planning, which is something we talk about in our classes often, but I felt that seeing those differences in person would help me understand how different these two regions really are.

Was there a big culture shock or challenge? 

It was choosing a home stay with a Spanish family for the entirety of my trip. This was very hard for me because I don’t speak Spanish very well, and I had to adjust to the Spanish dialect. But my host family was very kind and helpful while I continued to learn more of the language each day. I’m still adjusting to learning every day, but it is getting easier as the family helps me!

What has surprised you about your experience?

It’s how much regional pride there is in Bilbao, which is at the heart of the Basque Country in northern Spain. While we spent the first few days of our program in Madrid, I saw a few Spanish flags every once in a while. But in Bilbao, you will see the Basque flag on just about every corner you walk. People wear jerseys and hats with the flag, the Basque language is on every street sign and storefront, and people around the city will continue to speak the language. For me, this was one of the most interesting things about being in Spain, and it made me want to learn even more about the Basque region.

Any favorite food you’ve tried there?

My host family is beyond kind, so they will make me dinner or lunch every other day just to make sure I’m not paying for something every time I leave the house. Some days they’d make me chicken with rice and bell peppers, or they’d make patatas, which I can only describe as a potato omelet. Both tasted great. They told me that they’d typically make either dish for themselves whenever they come home from work or don’t want to buy lunch, and both are great meals that are very basic, with only a few ingredients. I’ll definitely try to replicate them once I get home.

Tell us about a moment that has stuck with you?

The thing I remember most about Bilbao is my first time walking to our host university on my own. On my 15-minute walk there, the views are absolutely magnificent, since you walk by 19th-century buildings, large cathedrals and the Guggenheim museum – all of which I can see from the bridge I cross on the river that leads to the university. I also see a bunch of small bakeries and cafes where everyone is getting pastries and coffee on the way to work and school. It was only a 15-minute walk from the house to the university, but it really cemented in my mind that I was in a completely different place that I couldn’t have even imagined living in before going on this trip.

How is your experience making you a better student/person or changing your world view?

It really expanded my views and made me step more outside my comfort zone. You’re doing so many new things in so many new places around so many new people, so it forces you to be a bit more independent, or to find different ways to solve problems. I think it’s good not only for your skills as a student but also your life skills when traveling anywhere around the world.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering studying abroad?

If you’re really on the fence, you should hear from others who have been abroad somewhere you’re thinking of going. I was sold on the experience when I attended the orientation meeting and heard from both the students and professors, but I still don’t think I could have ever expected how great going on an abroad trip could have been until I took the chance.

For more information about VCU’s study abroad opportunities, visit the Global Education Office.