As I sit down to write this, I can hardly believe that I have already spent two months of my study adventure here in Argentina. The passage of time feels paradoxical; it simultaneously rushes by in a blur and stretches into what seems like a lifetime. The reason for this paradox lies in the rich tapestry of experiences, challenges, and memories that have filled every day of my stay.
Allow me to introduce myself – I’m Hans, a 19-year-old fresh high school graduate from Norway. Just before embarking on this journey, I felt an undeniable need for a break from the classroom. But rather than opting for a year of rest and relaxation, I decided to immerse myself in the Spanish language and Argentinian culture. The prospect of improving my Spanish while making new friends from different corners of Norway and experiencing the vibrant culture of Argentina was simply too enticing to resist.
Despite having what I considered to be a relatively strong grasp of Spanish, as well as having spent the summer in Spain, adjusting to the unique porteño accent posed its challenges. The Argentine dialect, with its distinctive pronunciation and vocabulary, initially left me feeling a bit disoriented. Moreover, as someone who had never spent extended periods in a Spanish-speaking country before, I found the constant need to converse in Spanish quite exhausting. However, it didn’t take long for this linguistic adaptation to become second nature, transforming everyday conversations into a comfortable routine.
The city of Buenos Aires is nothing short of awe-inspiring. It stretches as far as the eye can see and invites exploration at every turn. What makes it even more fascinating is the incredible diversity of neighborhoods, known as barrios, each with its unique charm. From the historic and artistic allure of San Telmo to the grandeur of Recoleta, the vibrant colors of La Boca, and the trendy streets of Palermo, there’s no shortage of captivating places to discover. I vividly recall my first glimpse of the city lights, stretching endlessly as I landed at the airport. Buenos Aires seemed like a city that never slept, and I was eager to dive into its captivating rhythm.
In this semester, our group consists of around 70 students from Norway, with a handful of fellow students hailing from Sweden. The bonds we’ve forged are strong, and many of my newfound friends feel like lifelong companions. Most of us have opted to stay at the Kulturstudier accommodation, a delightful hostel called Milhouse Hipo. Nestled in Montserrat, a central yet peaceful neighborhood, it provides easy access to supermarkets, public transportation, and all the essentials. This hostel has become our anchor point, where we’ve laughed, shared stories, and built a sense of community that makes our time in Buenos Aires truly special.
While the friendships with fellow students are invaluable, I’ve also cherished the effort I’ve put into getting to know the local community. Porteños, as the residents of Buenos Aires are known, are some of the most warm, welcoming, and helpful people I’ve ever encountered. My girlfriend and I share a love for bouldering back in Norway, and we’ve continued this passion during our stay in Argentina. Through this shared interest, we’ve connected with local bouldering enthusiasts who have graciously extended invitations, shared their favorite spots, and guided us through the city’s hidden gems. These encounters with locals have enriched our experience and allowed us to truly immerse ourselves in Argentine culture.
As I reflect on my first weeks and the everyday study life here in Argentina, I’m reminded of how this adventure has already left an indelible mark on my life. From conquering linguistic challenges to exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, from forming lasting connections with fellow students to embracing the warmth of the local community, this journey continues to unfold with excitement and discovery. I can’t wait to share more stories, insights, and experiences from my study abroad experience in the coming months.
Hasta luego!
– Hans