June 4 - San Antonio

I hosted our orientation/potluck last night and met all students and travellers on the trip. It is a delightful group which possesses impressive culinary skills. Among the offerings... paella, patatas bravas, etouffe, European style appetizers -- an absolute feast!

Today is our first day of class and the beginning of our "journalistic bootcamp." Denise gave us an excellent introduction to news writing/reporting and the values associated with it. My hopes for this trip is to have our students experience Spain on several different levels. While taking in the points of interests we will be seeing daily, it is critical they reflect upon similarities as well as differences with USA culture. I hope they will come away with a deep appreciation of this fascinating place, will want to one day return and will learn more about themselves in the process!