Jill Harlow – Sagunto, Spain … Twenty current and former students from Campion Academy (CA) in Loveland, Colorado, wrapped up their six-week study abroad program in Sagunto, Spain, coming home not only with fun memories, but with a greater perspective of the world, themselves, and God.

In the second half of the program, the students took a five-day tour of the Madrid area, including visiting the deeply historical cities of Segovia and Toledo.

Josh P., CA junior student, commented, “I think that my favorite part of the tour in Madrid was touring the Royal Palace. From the very first room you’re met with jaw dropping views of intricately painted ceilings, grandiose wallpaper, and carefully crafted furniture. Every room becomes more impressive and awe inspiring than the last. Furthermore, as you walk through rooms constructed hundreds of years ago it gives you a very tangible sense of just how much history can be found in Spain. Being able to wander throughout the palace in awe was truly an unforgettable experience.”

The last two and a half weeks were more academically focused, digging deeper into the language and getting more serious about homework and tests.

Natalie B., CA junior student, reflected, “The classes were hard at first, mostly because teachers only spoke in Spanish, which personally overwhelmed me a bit. But once I got the hang of it, it was exciting to see improvements in myself. Something that also helped was how patient teachers were. Whenever I needed help or encouragement, they were always willing to be there for me. I was excited to learn a new language within another culture, and I hope I can learn more.”

One of the greatest opportunities of the trip was to make friendship bonds not only with our Campion group, but also with students from around the world, and the Spanish college students who worked for the program.

“All the friends I was able to build made my trip extra special because I got to meet amazing and funny people that I would have never been able to meet in any other circumstance,” shared Dayanara Z., CA senior student.  “Meeting new people made my summer better because they would get me to do things that I would not normally be willing to do like sing up front or dance flamenco for the talent show.”

Dayanara continued, “I appreciated how friendly the people from Spain were. They were always willing to help you with your homework. They made our daily worships fun and always made sure everyone was involved.  What I appreciate from the culture was how welcoming and how friendly they were to everyone making sure we were always included.”

Finally, the time away from family and our home country was a catalyst for personal and spiritual growth.

Annalise G., CA senior student, recalled, “The experience in Spain made me want to connect with God more and let Him guide me in the right way. I came into this trip never being away from home and so shy, and I had to learn to be patient with myself and give myself the time I needed to get comfortable and come out of my shell a bit. Once I did I slowly grew to be not only more independent but to be ok with putting my trust in others to rely on them for help when needed. I got to meet so many amazing people that helped grow and be ok with just being me. They treated me like family and supported me through every high and low.”

CA senior student Teagan P. furthered, “The trip to Spain was a big growing experience for me. Being away from my family and country challenged me to look at myself from a different perspective. The personal intentionality to go to church and other events helped me be more responsible for my spiritual growth. I learned many different things and became more independent as a person. I am so thankful that I was able to have this experience.”

—Jill Harlow is Campion Academy Spanish, English Language Learner (ELL), and Communication director. Photos supplied.