para los chicos de 2012

SPEAK SPANISH- This seems like a "well duh" sort of suggestion, but you'll spend a lot of time with other Univ. of Michigan students, so take advantage of the opportunities you're given to use your skills. Watch TV with your family and ask what is going on if you don't understand, answer more than just "bien" when the guy at the local cafe asks "que tal?"--open up a conversation. If you're in a store or at a club and someone wants to speak to you in English, pretend like you don't understand. Hablas espanol, claro.

BRING BAND-AIDS- You'll be doing plenty of walking so be prepared that those nice new shoes you bought before you came are going to give you blisters like none other. Plus it's always good to have them on hand.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF CULTURAL DIFFERENCES- You're living with a host family, which undoubtedly going to be different from your own. Don't be afraid to ask if there is a reason something is done one way. There might not always be a good answer, but it allows you to share about US culture as well. For instance, I had to explain to my senora why my housemate always said she would eat yogurt for breakfast. Here in Spain yogurt is a dessert, not a breakfast food! Chances are your host family will be just as curious about you as you are about them.

Futbol vs Football

TRAVEL- You're in Spain now, so make the best of it. If you've always wanted to go to Madrid, GO! Between all the different cultures, foods, and sights, it's silly not to! Money is always a consideration as poor college kids, but there are ways to travel cheaply (buses, hostels, free tours, street food). You'll regret NOT going more than the slight dent you'll put in your bank account.

DON'T OVER PACK- Las rebajas, or sales, start here at the beginning of July. Chances are you're going to be tempted to buy clothes there anyway, so lighten your suitcase and save a few things to buy here.

DON'T GO TO 'AMERICAN' PLACES- Irish Rover, Camelot, Gatsby's...Just don't do it. You can get a better, more authentic European/Spanish experience by going to a bar without as much advertising. Those places might have drink specials, but even they aren't that great.

most importantly...

HAVE FUN!!!- You won't get as much of the experience if you're always on your computer trying to talk to people back home, or getting caught up in culture shock. Take a deep breath, and remember you're only here for 6 weeks, and you should make the best of them!