Culture with Maryland-in-Barcelona

The biggest difference between studying in America and studying in Spain is definitely the cultural differences in what is normal and acceptable. For example, my classes at UMD are not required and often, some students may skip every single class then teach themselves lessons for the final. However, at my study abroad university, you automatically fail the class if you have more than 4 unexcused absences. Another difference is the use of technology in class. My professors in Barcelona find it rude and unacceptable to even pull out your phone or laptop once in the middle of their teaching. However, in the Van Munching lecture halls, nearly every student in the room is taking notes on their laptop and checking text messages frequently. This culture difference took some time to adapt to since all of my notes since coming to college have been taken electronically. At my home university, I am also used to finishing class around 3:30 or maybe 5 pm at the latest. In Barcelona, twice a week I don’t even start my first class until 5:40pm! It is very normal for students to be coming home from class around 9pm when it is dark outside because they eat dinner so late. My roommates and I normally start cooking dinner around 9 at night and most restaurants won’t open for dinner until at least 8:30. These cultural differences took a long time to get used to and definitely forced me to have a later lifestyle. Another typical food dilemma I had was the portion sizes! In America, if you go out for breakfast you can expect to be eating eggs, toast, bacon, hash browns and more! I’ve noticed that most Barcelona locals just grab a quick small espresso shot and cheap croissant to get them through the morning. I’ve yet to find a place that sells bacon or omelettes for breakfast!