• Stereotypes. What stereotypes did you have about Spain and Spanish people prior to the program? Has your experience thus far validated or contradicted any of these stereotypes? Give examples/evidence. Next, talk to your host family and language partner to find out what are some common stereotypes about America/Americans and Spain/Spaniards and report back on what you learn. Do you find these surprising? Offensive? Flattering? Neutral? Do you find any truth in them? Explain. (Recommended for post 3 or later)

       

        Prior to arriving in Spain, I had the stereotype that people outside of the United States had a bias against Americans that they were uncultured, less linguistically educated, and selfish. I have found that most people do not view Americans in this way. I have had a few instances where I was treated with less friendliness in the states due to my inability to communicate in Spanish, but the overwhelming majority of Spanish citizens have been very accommodating and patient with me. I also had the stereotype that Spain did not emphasize working the entire 9-5 day and were more relaxed about their work, rest, and recreational schedule. This stereotype was somewhat validated as I have found that many stores and restaurants do not have regular posted hours of operation as most stores in the U.S. do. Further, I have encountered closed shops and restaurants in the middle of the day (anywhere form 2pm-6pm). Many places close down during the day to have an afternoon siesta depending on work and lunch schedules which is a stereotype I held and had some bearing on reality in Spain. I was under the impression that Spanish citizens all worked typical jobs and this stereotype does not hold true. After talking with residents of Spain, I discovered that the unemployment rate is substantially higher than I thought at approximately 21%. I have encountered many people who work in the mornings and support themselves in other ways, as well as taking on responsibilities like tours, hosting, farming etc. This was not my initial thought but after witnessing how many people are able to live and support themselves through the means of adjunct positions, I was able to discover that having a “typical” job does not have to be the norm in Spain.

        I have experienced that a common stereotype about Spaniards is that they are louder and friendlier with each other. I have experienced this when witnessing many groups of Spanish friends, families, etc. talking and joking loudly with one another. Their noise level is never abrasive but rather more informal and joking than I am used to. Whether it is at a restaurant, tapas bar, or just walking around Granada, many Spaniards greet and converse in a louder more familiar tone. This was surprising as I had the preconception that Americans were generally pretty loud and outgoing, but it is positive to see that Spaniards are loud, social, and outgoing in their interactions with each other and Americans.