Interview with Andrew Funk
Nationality:
American
age range:
35-44 years old
landed in:
2003
languages:
English, Spanish & Catalan
work:
Social Impact Activist & President of #HomelessEntrepreneur
Introducing andrew funk, an american expat in Barcelona.
Why did you choose to relocate to Barcelona?
I just graduated from Arizona State University and I wanted to get to know the world.
What do you love the most about Barcelona?
Being around my family.
If you could give one piece of advice to future expats in Barcelona, what would it be?
Integrate and make the city yours.
What do you miss the most about home?
My friends.
What was your greatest fear before moving to Barcelona?
I didn't have any fears before moving to Barcelona.
What were the biggest adjustments you had to make when settling into life in Barcelona?
Learning the language and understanding the culture.
Did you experience any particular elements of culture shock?
I had to invite everyone for dinner for my birthday when it's the other way around in the States.
How did you meet your main community of friends?
The gym.
How did you find the job seeking process?
Against all odds.
Do you use your native language at work?
Yes.
How does the work culture in Spain differ from your home country?
Life and work priorities seem inverse in my opinion.
How does the cost of living in Barcelona compare to back home?
It's cheaper, but the opportunity to make more money is very limited.
How did you find a place to live?
Friends.
Did you find the paperwork difficult to manage?
Paperwork was a huge pain.
How did you prepare your children to move abroad?
All of my children were born in Barcelona.
Do you have any tips for other expat parents with children in Barcelona
Look for schools that have parents you get along with.
What are the top 3 things on your bucket list whilst living in Barcelona?
End homelessness in Barcelona, become mayor and ensure my kids get an excellent education.
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced after your relocation?
Overcoming homelessness.
Thank you to andrew funk for sharing your expat story with us!
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