Hello! My name is Sam and I am 23 years old, originally from New York but currently living in Madrid for the next year. Back in the states, I got my degree in Mental Health Counseling, and when I return I hope to work with the substance abuse population (which, as you may know, is a huge problem there). While in Madrid I will be an auxiliar in a high school. Prior to traveling to Madrid, I have never been outside of the U.S., so while abroad I am super excited to travel and see many new places!

I consider myself very open-minded, empathetic, and compassionate to a fault. I also am a bit of a loner, so I tend to travel solo. I feel I can enjoy and embrace the experience better when not with people I know too well. It allows me to be my true self. With that being said, I love to meet new people, however, and have the opportunity to hear their stories, and about what makes them unique. It is what I thrive off of, really.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Part of traveling, in my opinion, should entail experiencing the foreign country's culture as well. Meeting people from around the world seems incredibly fascinating to me, and I think having the opportunity to stay with people from another country is a great way to learn about others' worldviews. Hopefully this sharing of knowledge can be mutual, as I would happy to share about my experiences as well.

Music, Movies, and Books

I love being exposed to new music, but in the States I typically listen to alternative, rock, and pop punk.

My favorite book series is Harry Potter (go figure). I am also a big fan of Wicked and 1984 (and all of George Orwell's works, really). Currently I am making my way through the Game of Thrones series.

As for movies, I am particularly found of comedies and horror films.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I am totally an adrenaline junkie. If we meet up, ask me about it!

Teach, Learn, Share

I am hoping to learn about other's ways of life, and adapt and grow from the experiences I have while traveling. With that being said, it would also be incredible if I could inspire others along the way.

"Everyone you will ever meet, knows something you don't."
-Bill Nye

"Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known."
-Carl Sagan

"Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value."
-Albert Einstein

"You may encounter many defeats, but you must never be defeated."
-Maya Angelou

"We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty."
-Maya Angelou

What I Can Share with Hosts

I am of course happy to help with chores, or whatnot in return for a place a crash.

I also am known for being a good conversationalist, particularly when it comes to listening. I prefer to avoid small talk, so rather, tell me your passions, your dreams, what drives you, and what you make of life and death based on your experiences, not the weather. If this appeals to you, we should get along just fine!

Countries I’ve Visited

Belgium, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Spain

Countries I’ve Lived In

Spain, United States