I recall wanting to be an exchange student in my undergraduate program. Because of finances, I had none, I left the university to earn enough money to return to enter an exchange program to go to Spain. I left for eight months and worked in a law office. I knew I would return to the university; it was just something I felt I had to do. You see, my family’s descendants are Spanish and Native American. I thought it would be great to see if I could find out a little of my lost heritage. Would I see Spaniards that looked like me or my family members? My surname was Trujillo and I found a number of areas in the country where this surname was very popular. Sadly, when I returned to the university I realized that I ‘still’ could not afford to go to Spain so I never went.

This was many many years ago and I think back and wonder why I never made it a point to go to Spain as an adult. I have gone to Europe many times but seemed to unconsciously skip this beautiful country. Perhaps it was because I was so disappointed way back then. I really don’t know.

As I contemplate my upcoming visit, I feel the same excitement I had when I was a mere 19-year old girl. I will be presenting at the 9th International ELearning conference in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. It’s funny how life presents opportunities when you least expect them.