Spain: Adios Barcelona, Hola Madrid!

  
Today I am on my way to Madrid after spending 5 days in Barcelona. After just this short period of time, I am amazed at all I have done and seen as well as learned! This class, Innovation and Design in Spain, has been my most memorable experience from the University of Maryland and it’s only halfway over. I have been immersed in this new culture and have been thinking a lot about how it all connects to Innovation and Design. I have been able to learn more about Gaudi, a prolific Architect in Barcelona who focuses on themes of nature and religion, the traditional Spanish food, the political Catalonian movement, and talking to local businesses and individuals. Visiting La Sagrada Família was the most representative experience of Barcelona that I had. The church encompassed the passion the people of Barcelona have for religion, and appreciation for the monumental architecture of Gaudi. The themes inside of the church reflected what I have seen across the city; influences of nature and representation of people through the figures and statues. The excitement and eagerness to learn from everyone in my group has inspired me to try new things, be involved, and appreciate everything Barcelona had to offer.