“Yo soy español, español, español.”

“Yo soy español, español, español.” This is the typical chant heard in the plaza after Spain has just dominated another futbol game. Last night was no different than any other. After the final minute passed us by the entire plaza erupted in this chant. Oddly enough, screaming this phrase which means “I am Spanish” comes naturally to me now. Coming home is going to be an interesting transition considering… I’m not Spanish. I’m not gonna lie, I do get some funny looks walking around with my blonde curly hair while sporting my red jersey! It’s so much fun though, and it’s great pretending to be a Spaniard every now and then :)

The game was pretty much the highlight of our yesterday. Afternoon classes are quite different than what we are used to. Also, for some reason, we are given much more homework in Salamanca than we were in Madrid. So, we get up in the mornings and go to the LIBRARY, yes the LIBRARY to use the Internet and to do homework. We stay from 9:30 to around 12:30 when we go home for lunch and then school starts at 2 and goes until 5:30! Dinner at 8, and we have to sleep sometime! Now that you have read the play by play to my day let me reassure you… we still have fun!! Speaking of fun… here’s a funny story for you. I have learned that it is impossible for Spanish natives to say my name. Now, I know that they are ALL capable of pronouncing the letter “t” because I can list plenty of words that have “t” in them! BUT… no no no. My name will forever be, Courney. In other words, Corny. Really? And when they realize that they’ve messed up my name since it is so “impossible” to say, that say it over and over again…really fast so they make eye contact and say “Corny Corny Corny Corny Corny…” Oh boy…

Now I have officially skyped my parents for a long time today and have avoided homework at all costs. I’ve been getting strange looks talking into my computer from people passing by the cafeteria I’m so comfortably planted in (trust me when I say it’s no Starbucks, but it’ll do.) It’s been a great day mainly because I got to talk to my parents but ALSO because this waitress just brought me a coke and some cake which I didn’t order! I guess I’ll still have to pay for it but I’m gonna just pretend I’m really special for now! : )

Before I end this lovely blog I must give a shout out to my incredible roommate. She found out yesterday that her med school applications are due… today. Yeah, well this can be difficult when there’s only a computer between you and where the destination for your paperwork is. Luckily her parents have been super helpful and she’s been really strong. I can tell you that I would’ve broken down at least 8 times by now but she’s awesome and I’m very proud of my soon to be doctor roommate. Love you Em!