Throughout my life, I have always had a desire to see the world and experience other cultures. I always thought you could grasp a better understanding of the world when you actually go visit the place rather than just reading the textbook. You treat people differently because you understand why they are the way they are.

When you don't see other cultures, you never truly appreciate the world, as you don't fully understand it. You appreciate your own life and the opportunities you have been granted, but miss out on how everyone else in the world lives.

Last February, I traveled to Spain as part of an exchange trip through my school. I took part in a homestay where I lived with a Spanish host family, and a student lived with me. I have been taking Spanish since sixth grade and I was so excited to finally be able to use the knowledge I had learned all these years.

I traveled from Madrid to Granada, to Toledo, to Almería, to Malaga and various small cities in southern Spain. I fell in love with the beautiful country and all that it had to offer. I learned how important family was, and how in the United States other priorities sometimes come in front of what really matters. Every day at 3, we would have lunch with all the family members present.

This was so different from anything I had ever known, as both my parents work and I have played sports my whole life, practice being right after school goes out. This was a time for the family to all be together and take a step back and enjoy this meal with each other. I loved this so much, as it was a great time to reflect on the day

Although challenging at times, the language barrier being a huge adjustment, it was one of the best things I have ever done. I learned a lot more about myself than I thought I would. I gained an inner confidence where I feel I can go anywhere and make the best of the experience.

I can take in knowledge and apply it to my life, and bring back all that I have learned to the people at home.

I have a desire to see the world and experience life in other places than just my own home. I want to learn, appreciate, and love all of the people who come across my path.