When I first decided that I wanted to travel this summer, I had no idea where to start. The only solid detail that I had worked out was that I wanted to go somewhere Spanish-speaking and have the opportunity to gain international work experience while improving my language skills. Connect-123 let me bring my vision into focus, connecting me with an internship at a research institution in Barcelona that would last eight weeks over the summer. My first week in Barcelona was a wonderful sneak-peak into what the rest of my summer would look like… I was met with an ideal, centrally-located living situation, an inclusive and supportive work environment, a group of U.S. college students with mindsets similar to my own and a romantic city with endless opportunity for exploration. My Monday-Friday work schedule provided structure to my weeks that allowed me to stay productive and on-task in a city with truly numerous distractions. After work and on weekends, the city’s bountiful restaurants, museums, cultural exhibitions, concerts, beaches and other events made it near impossible to feel bored or alone. Connect-123 allowed me to go above and beyond my initial goal by immersing me into a summer of firsts… my first music festival, my first time in Paris (weekend trips, anyone?), my first time making homemade Paella, my first time living alone in a new place, and so many more. As my time in Barcelona comes to an end, I am excited to return home as a braver and more independent person who has made personal and professional connections that will last a lifetime.