Becoming a Part of the Family: A Host Family Experience

Dalton Larrinaga studied abroad in Bilbao, Spain

Here are some tips based on his experience:

- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Host families provide an amazing opportunity to learn about a culture and a language outside the classroom. The more you reach out and put time into these relationships, the more knowledge and growth you will gain from the experience.
- You might not have the same level of privacy in these living arrangements. It can be both a benefit as it forces you to spend more time with your host family, but this can be overwhelming. Find other outlets to get that alone time if you need it. This can include spending time at a café or setting a time at night that you tell your host family you are ready to go to bed and be alone.