Hey! My name is William, but I also go by Willie and Will. I'm from New York and recently graduated from university with my bachelors in ethnic studies. I currently made the move to Madrid to learn Spanish! While in Madrid, I'm a private tutor, au pair, and intern at a non-profit. I unfortunately can't host since I myself live with a host family, but I'm definitely down to meet with travelers who come to Madrid!

Going to university gave me the chance to meet people from across the U.S. and around the world–an opportunity I will always be grateful for. It allowed me to listen to and learn from the multitude of different perspectives people have to offer. It also showed me that even I have something to share. Connecting with people are instances that will never fail to put a smile on my face, and creating bonds with others are moments that I will always hold close because they can last a lifetime.

I'm a big believer in that we as people grow the most when we are not in our comfort zones, so with that I promised myself I will never stay stagnant.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

I have only heard positive stories from friends who have couch surfed so I could not let the opportunity pass me up when I decided to travel. I am excited to join a phenomenal community of travelers, and make lasting memories, connections, and friendships with those who I meet along the way. I always enjoy meeting new people (to learn, share, and connect with them) so Couchsurfing seemed right up my alley.

Interests

I may be skinny, but I love to eat! I always enjoy sharing a meal with friends whether we make it ourselves or go out to a local place and eat.

Dancing! I didn't realize how much I enjoy dancing until I stopped. Back in university I was a part of my school's Latin dance team and I had a blast dancing merengue, bachata, and salsa. I also just enjoy going out dancing to whatever music is playing at a club or house party. If good music is playing, a person shouldn't be sitting still in their seat!

I'm not one to sit around so I'm always moving. If I'm in a city, I love walking around to explore and get lost.

I can never pass down a good conversation. Whether it's over a drink, a meal, or on a couch late at night, I enjoy listening, connecting, and sharing with others.

• dancing
• bachata
• education
• cooking
• running
• walking
• partying
• drinking
• clubbing
• traveling
• socializing
• music
• teaching
• ethnic studies
• au-pair

Music, Movies, and Books

I have a pretty eclectic music taste from rap and pop, to bachata and salsa, and everything in between depending on the setting/my mood. I do have a soft spot for Nicki Minaj regardless of the occasion. My favorite artists of all time though are Matt & Kim. Their upbeat music always keeps be energized and going.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I chased a robber who was trying to steal my laptop while I was sleeping in my apartment, and I like to consider that decently interesting haha. After running three blocks and jumping two fences all while still in my pajamas and barefoot, I caught him!

Teach, Learn, Share

I worked a decent amount in the field of education and started my own education initiative back in my hometown . I love talking about the current climate of the American education system, the experiences I have encountered with the work I do, and the current work being done to make quality education accessible for all.

I'm surely no dance teacher, but I'd be happy to teach you the basics of some Latin dances (merengue, bachata, and salsa)!

I'm also definitely not a cook, but enjoy cooking with others and trying new dishes! My family is from Puerto Rico so I'd be happy to share some traditional Puerto Rican dishes if you'd like to try!

Ultimately I'm down to share a conversation! I love learning from others through hearing their own stories and experiences. I'd be more than happy to simply meet up with someone to connect and chat.

What I Can Share with Hosts

I'm an optimist at heart, and always do my best to look at the bright side of things. I look forward to connecting with others, sharing different stories, and finding common ground.

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, Denmark, Dominican Republic, England, France, Germany, Italy, Monaco, Netherlands, Puerto Rico, Spain, United States, Vatican City State

Countries I’ve Lived In

Spain, United States