Exploring the alleys of the city
Author: Ian Hollis | Major: Chemistry | Semester: January Intersession 2023
I am so incredibly lucky to have experienced the Global Changemakers: Barcelona program with the University of Arkansas. This program was very appealing initially as it showcased the opportunity to make change on a global perspective. In this program, I was able to explore the culture of the locals in Barcelona and the Catalonia region in general. I received insight into the conflicting attitudes many have regarding an independent state for Catalonia and some of the rich history surrounding the region, involving the Spanish Civil War.
The course was taught by Dr. Lawrence Hare and Dr. Rogelio Contraras. They introduced us to several sites of business that allowed the group to examine the unique methodology and practices in use. Through the examination of “benefit corporations,” the group was able to study these business models and their goals in inclusivity and sustainability. In many cases, these businesses opted for a caring and human approach instead of one simply catered towards efficiency and profit. The ability to witness the operation of these systems in person allowed me to empathize with the values of the corporations in making a social impact and building the community of Catalonia. As we visited these unique locations and sites, such as L’Olivera, a business cooperative and vineyard that hires people at risk of social exclusion, we learned about the organization’s purpose in building the community and local area. We were able to ask questions and listen to personal stories about the people that grew up in the Catalonia region. Many of these business models studied throughout the class included this group, people at risk of social exclusion, a term not seen here in the United States. This group could include the physically or mentally handicapped, as well as former inmates that are trying to re-incorporate themselves into society. It is interesting to observe businesses not solely focused on making profit but through helping the community in unique and impactful ways.
Over the course of the study abroad experience, I was also able to make unique visits to several important sites. We traveled to the city of Girona, an older city that is complete with its own unique cuisine and showcases large protective walls from the 9th.century. I was able to attend a fútbol game and witness the excitement and energy in the stadium that exudes a passion very different than the games in the United States. I also had the opportunity to dine at a Michelin Star restaurant, La Petit Comité, where I enjoyed different seafood varieties I had never tried previously. Additionally, I was able to witness the culture of Spain through a show of flamenco dance, complete with live music and vocals. Throughout the city, I visited many of the famous Antoni Gaudí architectural sites. Antoni Gaudí had a huge impact on the creation of the city, and his development of unique architecture such as La Padrera, Casa Batlló, and of course, La Sagrada Familia leave a deep mark on the history and development of Barcelona. Most importantly, I was constantly able to adapt and use my Spanish knowledge that I had learned in my courses at the University of Arkansas on this journey to get around, order food, and talk to locals in the area.
I was very happy I had the opportunity to go on a study abroad experience through the University of Arkansas before my graduation. I would recommend going on the Global Changemakers: Barcelona if you are interested in social enterprise and studying culture in a hands-on and personal manner. The excursion was very insightful into business practices in European countries, and the group and I were able to analyze these corporations and bring back information that could help with the models of business in the United States. Not only did I learn about various business models on this study abroad opportunity, but I received cultural enrichment through the immersion in the Spanish country.