A bike excursion to Ciutadella Park

Author: Julianna Kantner | Majors: International and Global Studies, Political Science | Semester: January Intersession 2023

After learning about social innovation and entrepreneurship in Northwest Arkansas, I was so excited to witness the strategies organizations in Barcelona use to address the same issues of food insecurity and job skill development that effect my community. While studying in Catalonia, I was able to see how different cultural, legal, and economic frameworks alter solutions to global issues. At the same time, I learned how much potential there is for collaboration, even across the globe. This study abroad experience challenged me to think differently. From Dalí’s art to Gaudí’s architecture to the unique business model La Fageda uses to employ people in vulnerable circumstances, I was motivated to push the boundaries of how I view business and success. As I prepare for law school and a legal career in public interest law, it will be important to challenge the norms. Providing accessible justice requires a constant consideration of social needs and innovative changes. While in Barcelona, I was inspired by leaders who spend their lives pushing the boundaries of what business and non-profit work can accomplish. For example, we spoke to a representative of La Fageda. This company sells some of the most popular dairy products in Catalonia while also prioritizing the employment of those with who are neurodiverse or experience other social vulnerabilities. Rather than utilizing a business model that prioritizes efficiency and profit, this project puts their social mission first. We learned of steps the organization took to increase the number of individuals they can employ, even at the expense of ultimate efficiency. However, walking through Barcelona you could still see their products on the shelves of many stores. La Fageda’s simultaneous business success, observable community amongst their employees, and accomplishment of their social mission is evidence that business can look much different than what I am accustomed to learning about in the U.S.

Another impactful component of studying in Barcelona was learning about the importance of Catalan culture. As the regional capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is a fantastic place to learn about the unique identity and history. After Catalan culture experienced several repressive political movements, the importance of cultural preservation to many in Barcelona is evident. Visiting a winery known as L’Olivera provided some insight to the importance of Catalan language. Like La Fageda, L’Olivera works to provide employment to those in vulnerable circumstances while also producing high quality product. However, one important topic of conversation during our visit with L’Olivera was the company’s devotion to using Catalan language for their products. In a way, this cultural preservation is a powerful response to years of discrimination and efforts to erase Catalan culture. Learning both from the company’s principles and our guide’s personal experiences of discrimination was an eye-opening lesson on the connections between culture, business, and how consumers spend their money.

Aside from the many sight visits and meetings with organizations like La Caixa Foundation and the Barcelona Banc D’Aliments, I also loved the natural beauty of Spain. Having time to enjoy the Barceloneta beach, ancient ruins looking over the sea in Tarragona, and the beautiful streets of Girona were some of the highlights of the trip. The many long lunches and dinners of tapas, paella, and croquettes provided a taste of the community and values in Spain. Time with family and friends was so integrated into every activity. Usually, dinners would last two to three hours, giving plenty of time for conversation and quality time with friends. These small moments and little differences created some of the best memories.

My advice to any student considering this program is to 100% do it! The experience was the perfect combination of an academic environment that challenged me to think differently and insight to the culture of Catalonia through its natural beauty, dance, language, and food. I recommend that anyone on a short program take full advantage of the free time. Book reservations for new restaurants or tickets for concerts. Try new things and get recommendations from the locals. Don’t be afraid to spark conversation with strangers. Some of my favorite conversations from the trip were with people standing next to me in line, my taxi driver, or the table next to me at a restaurant. I met people from Korea, Italy, and Poland just from random encounters. Also, it helped to know a little of the language so that I was able to get around and communicate with those helping me at a restaurant or store.

Overall, I am so grateful to have experienced two weeks in Barcelona. After this study abroad experience, I feel empowered to travel more and explore new cultures. Not to mention, the lessons I learned from the great organizations in Barcelona will stick with me as I explore innovative ways to address social challenges.