As Proctor's spring term Proctor en Segovia students enter the final weeks of their experience living and learning in Spain, English teacher Shelby Wischan challenged them to craft a reflective writing assignment to honor someone who has made a significant impact during their time abroad. The assignment prompt acknowledged the difficulty of writing about those closest to us: "Often when people are important and special to us, we tend to take them for granted, and they are simply part of the foundation on which our life is built."
Whether host families who welcomed them into their homes as if they were their own children, teachers who guided their Spanish language development, community members who enriched their afternoon activities, or friends of the program, these relationships form the heart of Proctor en Segovia and Proctor's off-campus programs. Studies demonstrate that expressing gratitude can enhance students' (and all of our) focus, resilience, and positive outlook, binding people together and improving both emotional and academic well-being. Read the tributes that follow from Jake '26 and Julia '26.
Jake '26 - Ana and José Luis
There are so many people here in Segovia who are special and indispensable during this trimester. For me, I have loved spending time with my host family. They are truly amazing people; they are loving, caring and some of the best chefs I have ever encountered. From the first day I met José Luis and Ana, I knew this would be a lifelong bond.
They have a beautiful home located about 20 minutes away from school, walking distance. I live up on the second floor and have a small yet cozy room tucked to the side with my bathroom attached as well. While both Jose Luis and Anna do not speak much English, it has been a blast continuing to speak and improve my Spanish language skills. Whether it's a hot, home-cooked meal for "la comida" or my favorite pasta and chorizo dinner dish, the love and care they put into their food is by far an expression of cultural pride and heritage. From hugging and kissing me on my way to school and greeting me with a "Hola hijo, que tal," which in essence means "Hey son, how are you?" this sense of being treated like their son, immediately being welcomed into their family with open arms and the way they truly care for me, and my well being is why they are so special to me.
With the end of the trip coming closer and closer, I am already dreading the last day, giving them a final hug and kiss goodbye. I know I will be the first to text them on Christmas and for their birthdays. I already can't wait to come and visit them when I return to Segovia. There are just so many special people here that I can't wait for future groups to meet!
Julia '26 - Gary
Gary is Shelby's dad, but he is more than that; he is the group's dad. He's been helping out this semester to spend quality time with Shelby, but he has quickly become an integral part of the group. He always has a big smile on his face; he's easy to talk to and understand. The other day, I asked him if he would like to go to mass with me, and he happily agreed. I am not Catholic and had no idea what was happening, but Gary leaned over and whispered what the various steps of the service represented.
Gary is also the one who does all the grocery shopping, which makes him popular among the group. He looks for the gluten-free cookies I like, which we currently can't find but were able to find on our excursion in San Sebastián. They taste like adventure. He also gets me cheese that I can eat. We all appreciate the time and effort he makes to keep us well fed because it gives the school a homey, cozy atmosphere.
Not only that, but Gary is a good sport; he is fun and makes us laugh. He sometimes even acts like a four-year-old, but it helps keep the group dynamic light and fun. Spending two months with such a small group can feel intense, and his kid-like energy helps remind us not to take life too seriously.
María José's Spanish class is already awesome, and Gary makes it better. He has the best grades and consistently tries to speak Spanish in some capacity… which is a little annoying, but on the other hand, he inspires us to actually apply the Spanish we are learning in class.
Gary is brilliant and is a fascinating person to talk to. We have had many deep conversations; Gary is a phenomenal addition to the Proctor en Segovia team, and I don't know what I would do without him! In his own words, "I am the bomb," and I can't think of another statement that sums him up quite like that one.
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- Off-Campus Program
- Proctor en Segovia