I have been living and studying in Barcelona for 6 months now and have only just got the hang of the Spanish lifestyle. Having never lived outside of the UK, I was nervous about my move, not knowing what to expect. My Spanish language abilities are questionable and I was afraid my deeply sarcastic British humour may not translate. My first day at university can only be described as a series of unfortunate events. After realising my uni was a full hour away from my new flat, I hopped on the metro and was on my way. Wandering through campus in my bright red dress and pasty English skin, I stood out like a sore thumb, surrounded by denim jeans and Spanish-sun kissed models. It appears everyone in Spain not only follows some unspoken dress code, but are also extremely attractive. Still, I held my head high and made my way to the admissions desk. Testing out my newly acquired Spanish vocab, I asked for my class schedule, to which the woman replied ‘I’m sorry, but it doesn’t appear that you are a student here’. Shocked, confused and extremely anxious I finally managed to persuade the woman that I have in fact been accepted to the exchange programme and am indeed a student. She reluctantly gave me some forms and I was on my way to being fully matriculated. 

At this point, I felt that I was owed some of my favourite Spanish cuisine: croquettes (croquetas). A hop, skip and a google search away was a little bar called La Pepita. I will never forget that first bite. The crispy, deep-fried outer layer, the creamy, salty jamon goodness inside. It was like a little taste of heaven and made all my anxiety evaporate. It fascinates me how good, comfort food can have such a grounding effect. Since then, I have made extensive research into the art of croquetas and have collated a certifiably excellent list of the best restaurants in the city. I have realised that doing little tasks like this not only fills up a day but also creates a sense of stability, allowing you to explore your new home in a relaxed and fun way – without any pressure. That night I went home and had some much-needed bonding time with my new flatmates, who have now become my family.

6 months later, La Pepita is still my favourite croqueta spot in the city, not just for the great food but also the sentimental attachment. It is one of the first of many moments of feeling extreme gratitude for the year ahead of me and all the opportunities it promised. If I have any advice for students or anyone planning to move away I would say embrace the scary moments, let your reality sink in before making any rash decisions to leave, do not put too much pressure on your time for it is what you make of it. Making friends in a foreign place is very different and it can leave you feeling isolated and hopeless. Have a little faith that your people will find you eventually. Most importantly, take every day one by one and I promise you will find your footing. Leaving somewhere familiar to you will never be easy and there will be many bumps in the road. There is unfortunately no cure for homesickness but every little thing helps. Missing loved one’s is all part of the process, but with the right friends, some comfort food and perhaps a little retail therapy, have faith that it will all be okay.