Dear Future Students,

You will love Salamanca. But, I can help you love it more:

Most importantly, do not take this trip for granted. Many will never have the opportunity to see Spain or any of Europe. There will be inconveniences while you are in Spain, but always remember to be thankful for being here and cherish all your experiences-the good and the bad.

Take advantage of the free opportunities in Salamanca! Jazz in the street, museums are free on certain days, theatre shows... There is a free newspaper called Gratis which is at the library and stands on Calle Toro and inside it outlines all the free expositions for the week.

Bring Kleenex - most public bathrooms will not have toilet paper.

The street signs are on the sides of buildings. If you are lost, ask someone where the Plaza is because everyone knows where that is and then you can reorient yourself.

Spain is HOT. You will get sweaty but can only shower once a day, so do not worry about doing your hair and looking your best. Your friends won't care.

Men can be creepy. Be smart and be aware, but don't let this stop you from going out. Walk with someone and watch your wallet and you will be fine.

Do not be stressed if you do not understand everything your senora says at first. I still don't understand everything. They will be patient with you. Talk as much Spanish as you can and you will improve! You can only learn so much from a classroom in the US about speaking the language. The real improvement comes from practicing with the native speakers, making mistakes, and learning from them. My senora and her grandson have taught me more than any class I've taken:

Get into the habit of doing things every day - exercising or going to a park to read or to a cafe. You will get bored if you stay at home all the time.

Explore! There are paddleboats and row boats on the river which are cheap to rent. There is a market on Sundays. and there are so many museums in Salamanca - from art to the history of automotion, there is something for everyone.

You will walk a lot so make sure you bring good shoes and band-aids in case you get blisters.

Travel - Europe has a great transportation system so utilize it for cheap flights, train tickets, and bus rides!

If you eat a big breakfast, you will not be full from eating at home, but you can always get a snack from the grocery store between classes.

Students from all over the world come to the University of Salamanca to study, so you have the opportunity to talk to people with many different perspectives on global issues. There is never an end to how much you can learn from other people here, so do not limit yourself to Americans.

The Plaza Mayor is simply stunning. Do not take it for granted.

Your professors are there to help. They know of great places for tapas and many other questions you may have, but do not forget to explore on your own.

Do not be frightened by "The Clapper".

And if you have any other questions, feel free to E-mail me :)