Kristina, one of our cultural exchange participants, is back from a magical three-month stay in the beautiful city of Valladolid. Her reflections on this unforgettable journey are filled with excitement, personal growth, and heartfelt moments—read on to see what made her experience so special.
Hello everyone! I just got back from my exchange in Valladolid, Spain, where I spent three amazing months—and honestly, it exceeded all my expectations. From the very first day until the last, I felt completely welcomed, and that’s all thanks to the wonderful host family I ended up with. My advice? Choose a good family, especially if you’re staying for a longer period—you’ll be spending most of your time with them, and it makes all the difference.
Kristina also shared a surprising highlight:
What really took me by surprise was how far out of my comfort zone I went. I found myself doing things I probably never would’ve done back in Serbia. I traveled alone, explored cities nearby, discovered new places—and just fully embraced the experience.
And when it comes to working with our team, she couldn’t be happier:
My experience with the Center for Affirmation and Development was nothing short of fantastic! From day one, the team was professional, dedicated, and always there to answer my questions. Whether I needed advice, help with a problem, or just a bit of reassurance, they were always available, which made my stay in Spain so much easier and more relaxed. I especially want to give a big shoutout to Anja—she was always there when I needed support or guidance. Her dedication and willingness to take the time for me really made me feel safe and at ease throughout the whole program.
And here’s her message to future participants:
Whether you’re planning a short or long exchange, I wholeheartedly recommend it. If you’re someone who’s curious, eager to learn, and ready to step out of your comfort zone, this program is perfect for you! You’ll not only improve your language skills and get to know a whole new culture, but you’ll also grow so much as a person. If you get the chance—go for it!