I am a recent graduate moving to Spain as an English Assistant.  Though I have studied abroad I am a bit apprehensive about moving to Spain without the safety net of my University. I speak Spanish above intermediate level which should help but I have a few questions about my apprehensions…..

1.) I lived in Madrid for a semester and had a wonderful experience.  I endured some well-intentioned questions about my background and lots of staring….all of which I could handle.  I’m from a huge city where diversity is celebrated and commonplace. Now I hope to live in Alcal? de Henares but will be teaching in a smaller town with children and I am kind of nervous about how I will be received outside of a diverse area. 

Any thoughts, advice, or experiences that might help me feel a little more comfortable or at least enable be to paint a realistic picture for myself of what to expect I’d really appreciate.

2.) Does anyone have any suggestions about the best areas to live in Alcal? de Henares?  Or know anyone (from the University maybe)  looking for a roommate to share an apartment with there?  I don’t know anyone there so I would greatly appreciate any contacts.