This past Spring Break, 14 students from the Upper School traded their usual routines for an unforgettable international experience in Cataluña, Spain. As part of the school’s annual Spanish exchange program, students traveled abroad to immerse themselves in language, culture, and daily life alongside Spanish high school students.
The exchange is a reciprocal program between Flint Hill and Institut Josep Vallverdú. In the fall, students from Spain visit Virginia, staying with host families and attending classes. In the spring, Flint Hill students return the experience by traveling to Spain, where they live with their host families and take part in their daily routines.
During the ten-day trip, students experienced much more than tourism. They attended school, gaining firsthand insight into the Spanish education system and practicing their language skills in real world settings. Outside the classroom, the group explored some of the region’s most meaningful cultural and historical sites during their immersive journey through Spain.
Students visited very memorable places in the region, including Barcelona, where they saw famous sites including Parc Güell and experienced the city beyond what most tourists see. They got to explore the iconic architecture of Antoni Gaudí such as the Sagrada Familia, a stunning, unfinished Catholic church with detailed facades and towering spires. Sabrina Kladakis ’28 exclaimed, “I love the exploration of the Sagrada Familia because it was an immersive and unique experience of a major part of Spanish history.” The group also traveled to Zaragoza to tour The Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, as well as explored the beautiful Aljafería Palace, one of the students’ favorite locations.
Beyond sightseeing, the most meaningful aspect of the trip was the personal connections. Vivienne Bailey ’28 remarked, “My immersive experience to Cataluña, Spain taught me so much about diverse communities abroad and being able to experience a different rhythm of life. Staying with a host family and meeting new people will be a memory I’ll never forget.” Living with host families allowed students to experience everyday Spanish life, from shared meals to local traditions, which created a deeper cultural understanding that goes far beyond what can be learned in a classroom. Ashley Griggs ’28 shared, “It was so fascinating to live the daily life in Spain.”
The Spanish exchange trip reflects Flint Hill’s commitment to global learning and cultural immersion. By stepping outside their comfort zones, students not only improved their Spanish language skills but also gained independence, adaptability, and a broader perspective on the world. As more students continue to share their stories, one thing is clear: the Spanish exchange was not just a trip, but an experience that left a lasting impression on every student.
