It's simple: the phrase "Sin Miedo" along with a matador facing down a bull; a red cape waving through the air.
Dramatic, right?
But it encourages courage. We may not be fighting bulls, but for me, putting myself out there was always a struggle. No matter how many presentations I gave, I'd always get nervous speaking to a crowd, and after a certain point, you've got to accept it. Accept that fear, and do it regardless. Studying abroad has been a wonderful opportunity that will last a lifetime. The professors were very sweet and approachable, and the courses challenged me to work and think differently than I did in the U.S., and I will be forever grateful for the change in perspective. You learn so much about the world and about people when you engage with others with an open mind. When coming to Madrid, my classmates and I were encouraged to leave behind as much American culture as possible in order to live truly as a madrileño/a. My best advice; treat Spain (or your country of choice) as a new friend. Learn its secrets, its history, its inhabitants, and always explore. Be aware. Be curious. Take that leap, even if it seems impossible. Try to close the gap between yourself and the world around you. After all, you never know what you'll find.
Remember, ¡lo que es más importante es invisible a los ojos!
