Let’s talk about something we don’t always talk about enough: what it really feels like to move to a new city within the same region as an auxiliar.
This year, I’m moving from Gandia to Alicante. Same Comunidad Valenciana, technically not that far on a map… but emotionally? It feels like pressing reset all over again.
When I first applied to renew, I had high hopes, like so many of us do. I thought maybe I’d finally end up in Valencia city, the place I had been daydreaming about since I first set foot in the region. The food, the culture, the energy, it was the obvious next step in my mind. But nope. The program had other plans. And now, Alicante is where I’m heading next.
And here’s the honest truth: I was upset at first.
Starting over is hard, even when it’s exciting. Even when it’s not your first rodeo, the idea of packing up again, finding a new apartment, adjusting to a new school, and making new friends (again!) can feel overwhelming, especially when you were just starting to feel settled in your last town.
Let’s Talk About the Highs and Lows
There’s the initial sting of disappointment. Not getting the placement you wanted. Saying goodbye to a place you finally figured out. Feeling like the rug’s been pulled from under your plans. There’s the stress of logistics, figuring out housing, transportation, the vibe of your new city, how far the school will be from your apartment (again), and whether you’ll like the local grocery store. Yes, that matters. And of course, there’s the emotional weight of starting over when it feels like you just started.
But the highs? They’re real, too.
Because now that the dust has settled, I’m actually… excited. Alicante is bigger than Gandia. Maybe better. Definitely different. It’s a whole new canvas to create a life on.
And the truth is, some of the best parts of this experience come from the unknown. A new city means new friends, new energy, new opportunities, and maybe even discovering things about yourself you wouldn’t have in the comfort of your old place.
Plus, let’s not lose sight of this: I get to live in Spain for another year. That’s something I refuse to take for granted.
What I’ve Learned So Far
- Your experience will be what you make it. It’s less about the city and more about your mindset.
- Shifting your perspective can change everything. I went from bummed to buzzing with ideas about what my new life in Alicante could look like.
- Small regions still hold big differences. A move within the same comunidad might not seem major to some, but emotionally, it’s still a transition worth acknowledging.
- Gratitude helps you breathe through it all. Every time I start spiraling, I remind myself: I get to do this. I’m lucky to be here. Not everyone gets a second year in Spain, or lives in Spain for that matter.
So if you’re in a similar spot, navigating the messy middle between where you were and where you’re headed, know this: it’s okay to grieve what didn’t happen. It’s okay to be scared of what’s next. But don’t forget to be open. Because sometimes the backup plan ends up being the best plan.
Here’s to new cities. New chances. New versions of ourselves are waiting on the other side.
Love always,
American Girl Meets World
