A really important part of the Macalester experience for Macalester soccer players is the study abroad program, typically enjoyed in the spring of junior year.
In 2010 five Macalester men's soccer players are abroad;
Erik Johnson (Spain),
Graham Bevan (India),
Tristan Taru (China),
Nate Juergens (South Africa) and
Will Goldstein (Scotland).
Each one of these players has been asked to reflect on their experiences and here is a report from
Erik Johnson (Jr., Bethesda, Md. / Landon H.S.):
"My study abroad experience thus far has been simply incredible. Although I have only been in Spain for three weeks, I have adapted to the local customs and culture, met many new friends from across the United States and Spain, visited the beautiful Spanish cities of Burgos and Segovia on weekend excursions with my program, and finally got to see a European Futbol Match live in which Real Valladolid tied Almeria 1-1 (not the greatest teams but exciting nonetheless).
“My Spanish skills are definitely showing signs of improvement, but are far from perfect. I am excited to see what the rest of the semester will bring, and to start playing soccer as soon as possible (once it warms up a little bit; yes, it is cold here in Spain!). Hope all is well back in the U.S.A."
