The countdown begins: What now, what's next

 "Only 10 weeks to go"

It is easy to forget that at one point this was all just a plan I had set out for myself and it could have very well not have happened. Being extremely unwell before my arrival had my plans looking a bit far fetched and impossible.

And now I am here having made it almost to the end. I haven't regretted my decision to take a year out and embark on this experience. I have never been the sort to travel alone and so for me this was a major step not only out of my comfort zone but out of what I knew best. I have learned languages, skills, cultures and a very different way of living. Something that I really would not be able to do, or no one would be able to do without living in a specific area or country. This experience is honestly second to none and everyone back home knows already how much I rant and rave about how it is such a shame for those who do not get to experience it. To be quite honest you can't regret not doing something like this because you only truly understand the value of it all once you have done it. If I had a chance to pick a different country or even come back to Spain and do it again I would do it in a heartbeat. Not many experiences can bring together such a vast amount of people from so many different backgrounds and upbringings. The fact that so many of us are doing something new also helps people to be a lot friendlier than they may have ever been before.

I genuinely consider Madrid to be my third home and would easily relocate if given the chance to do so. I have already been invited back by my lecturers to come and teach at some point, or even to complete my masters here. Although that is something in the future, I can still consider it and take pride in knowing that they would have me back not only to be a student but eventually become the master.

And so the countdown begins with only 10 weeks left of my time here and I need to fit in all the travelling I possibly can and genuinely ensure that I have no reason to regret my time being here. I want to do everything and anything possible, I want to experience it all.

As I have said before the whole experience has really put things into perspective, not only have I rebranded myself as a graphic designer, I feel more confident to put myself out there and work with you live briefs and real organisations. I have always said I found it hard to call myself a graphic designer because I felt as though I had nothing to show for it but now I have teaching experience working experience and a travelling experience all second to none. I look to meet with some graphic designers my lecturer has invited me to meet. UltimatelyI want to have created a solid and sturdy brand/business by the time I leave. 10 weeks is more than enough time to feel more qualified and confident in myself and my work.

Madrid is not quite yet done with me but then again I will never be done with it. 10 weeks and counting but I know I will be back soon.