Lost in Translation (and I'm loving It)

Hey everyone! It’s been a whirlwind since I landed in Spain — full of metro mishaps, classroom chaos, and a few “wait, what day is it?”moments. So, let’s do a quick recap of all the things that have happened in the last few weeks!

🚇 Metro Moments: Getting Lost (and Laughing About It)

So, I’m still learning the metro — and wow, what an adventure! My best advice? Read the signs. Seriously.

I’ve definitely hopped on the wrong train more than once (four stops in the wrong direction, to be exact 😅). But honestly, the metro has become my favorite way to get around. It’s fast, reliable, and way easier than the Cercanías or the bus once you get the hang of it.

If you’re planning to move here, download Citymapper. It’s been a total lifesaver — it gives you real-time updates, the fastest routes, and even tells you when to leave. You’ll thank me later!

🏫 First Days at School: The Real Start of the Adventure

Unlike some of my roommates, I didn’t get to meet my school before the first day — talk about jumping right in!

But once I arrived, I got to meet my teachers, staff, and even a few students. We turned in our paperwork, got our keys, and received our schedules. Fun fact: my school gives everyone Fridays off (yes, you read that right ), so I work Monday through Thursday.

Pro tip: If you’re joining a similar program, practice your commute before your first day. Figure out which metro or bus works best for you — it’ll save you so much stress in the morning!

📅 My Schedule: Organized Chaos (in the Best Way)

My schedule is pretty packed — I teach English to nine different classes! Some days, I’m practicing for the Cambridge exam with my students in my English class, and other days I’m teaching history or technology in English. I see most of my students two to three times a week, and each class lasts about 55 minutes.

One of my biggest culture shocks? The students stay put, and the teachers move! You only get about five minutes to dash from one classroom to another. It’s basically a mini workout between lessons.

Oh, and lunch breaks are a whole event — the whole school eats at the same time! On my late days, I have a five-minute break to catch my breath before the next class.

🧠 Lesson Planning: My Teacher Brain in Action

You’ll definitely be doing some lesson planning — but don’t panic! My advice (from one teacher to a new teacher):
👉 Find a resource close to your lesson topic and make it your own.

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel every time. Use what’s out there and build around your teaching style. The students really respond when you add your own twist or bring in something interactive.

✨ Final Thoughts: Still Learning, Still Laughing

These past few weeks have been a mix of confusion, excitement, and so much learning. From missing metros to mastering lesson plans, every day has been a new adventure — and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

If you’re getting ready to teach abroad, just remember: it’s okay not to have it all figured out. You’ll learn as you go — and have some great stories to tell along the way. Si se puede!