By Isabelle Keever '24

This summer, Jackson Waltman took a chance when he separated from his group of fellow Aggies to embark on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage across Spain. He found the experience challenging but well worth the reward. 

“This experience changed my overall world view,” Waltman said. “The trip was so worth it, and I realize how valuable travel is.”  

Waltman, a Texas A&M University International Studies major, participated in an Education Abroad program at the University of Granada offered through Arcos Learning Abroad. Camino de Santiago was not part of his original itinerary. It was something he "stumbled upon" and decided to participate, although other Texas A&M students would not be joining him. 

Also known as the Way of Saint James, Camino de Santiago is an extensive network of ancient pilgrim routes stretching Europe. These routes come together at the tomb of St. James in northwest Spain. Despite the strenuous five days, Waltman views walking the Camino as an excellent opportunity for open-minded individuals with a reason to participate.  

 “It was surprisingly tough and very physically demanding,” Waltman said. “Whether it be religious, spiritual, or for sightseeing, everyone has different reasons. I wanted to see first-hand how differently people live in comparison to us. 

“One of the most enjoyable parts of the trip was meeting a lot of new people and talking along the way.” 
  
The director of Arcos Learning Abroad, Brent Hunter, also walked the Camino de Santiago and regards the opportunity as something fundamental, especially now. 

“With COVID came isolation and the overall degradation of mental health," Hunter said. "Walking the Camino would help keep the body in sync and would force you to work through the pain, both physical and mental. All of the focus is on that experience and the walk." 

Hunter sees the experience as a way to connect with others. During the pilgrimage, people are walking together, all towards the same destination. 

“The experience is about community as you see the same people every day while getting to know them and hearing their stories,” Hunter said. 

Both Waltman and Hunter encourage students to consider walking the route if given the opportunity.  

“The Camino experience shows the depth of the history in these places and how people can live so differently,” Hunter said. “It can help make you more inquisitive and want to explore further.” 

For this group, the walk occupied a significant amount of the day. Still, there were opportunities to stop, rest, and experience the culture. Students were given cash each day to stop at cafes or villages along the route. 

“It is important to enjoy the time, relax, and gather your bearings before continuing on,” Hunter said. 

Waltman is thankful to have had the opportunity to combine learning with traveling abroad. 

“The trip taught me a lot,” Waltman said. “If you have the opportunity, A&M has a really great study abroad program.”