Hola!

My name is Jackson and I am from Devon, Pennsylvania. I attended Hamilton College in Clinton, New York, where I studied philosophy and Hispanic studies. During my time at Hamilton, I was supposed to be enrolled in Hamilton College Academic Year in Spain for the entirety of my junior year. However, due to COVID-19, the program was canceled and I decided to take a gap year instead.

Taking a gap year in the middle of college is not a traditional path, but it turned out to be a great experience. During the first half of my gap year, I stayed at home and worked with 4 middle school students to assist them with virtual learning. In addition, I earned enough money to spend the second half of my gap year in Napa, California with my aunt and uncle. Here, I was able to travel and explore the West Coast without having to worry about school work in the background. I developed a love for travel and exploration that would influence my decision to participate in CIEE.

Fast forward to my senior year of college and my petition was granted to attend the Hamilton College Academic Year in Spain program for my final semester. This was a great introduction to Spain that would pave the way for the following year of teaching. After having lived in Madrid for over a year now, I am excited to share what I have learned in upcoming blog posts!