August 2021 has arrived. It has been five years since the events that lead to the birth of Dreams Abroad at a Spanish language school, TANDEM. To recognize this anniversary, we have asked founding members to look back at each year in turn. What have they learned? Where has their life taken them? Do they still work abroad or work remotely?
I remember meeting Justin Hughes-Coleman for the first time in Madrid, on a sweltering day in the Spanish capital. My initial impression of his character was of a reserved but, at the same time, happy-go-lucky individual. He exuded a warm, bubbly personality with a lust for life and a smile that bounced off every wall in a room. Getting to know him better, I discovered more complexities webbed throughout Justin. He is an intricately layered professional who has known his fair share of pain as much (if not more) as pleasure.
Let’s rewind to 2016 first. What was the most significant thing you learned that year?”
During 2016 I learned that if I shift my focus to my goals and break down those goals into smaller achievements, I could live the life I want. Getting to Spain required so many little and big things to be in place, from finances to storing my belongings. Actually, living in Spain opened up another world of goals. My passion has been to travel and explore the world. Now I am focused on making that a long-term, sustainable lifestyle.
What caused a shift in your thinking in 2017?”
During my second year in Spain, I tried to focus on both maximizing my limited time left in Spain while also planning for the future. I knew I wanted to have a career I could work remotely in so that I had the option to travel. During 2017 I networked with many technology professionals to find a career path that suits my desired lifestyle.
How do you best remember 2018?”
Bittersweet! In June 2018 I left Spain. I ended a chapter of my life that I never thought I would experience and that changed me forever. In Spain, I made incredible friends that are still close to me to this day. My students and teachers sending me off in style is something I won’t ever forget. I will also remember 2018 as the year I realized I really need to put my goals first or else I will never achieve them.
What was your major professional development of 2019?”
I enrolled in a professional technology program that was supposed to lead to a job in the tech industry. It was meant to be the first step to living abroad long term. The boot camp was in Data Science and I was instantly immersed in a new world. I’ve really enjoyed the field so far. Not only is it challenging and innovative, but it also has a real-world impact.
Where did 2020 take you?”
My boot camp concluded a mere month before the pandemic so I really struggled to find a job. I was offered two positions that were later rescinded. Eventually, I took a step back and started doing more freelance projects just to keep my skills up to date.
How would you sum up how your life has gone so far in 2021? Have you begun to work remotely?”
First and foremost, I am very fortunate. No one in my life suffered from COVID and I had the financial means to not need to worry about money during the pandemic. At the moment I do feel a little lost as I am still looking for a permanent full-time position in my field. However, I am committed to moving this year and my area of specialty allows me to work remotely. I am exploring American cities that will make a good home base for my travels. Right now I’m looking at Atlanta, GA, Miami, FL, and New Orleans, LA. Any feedback on any of these places is greatly appreciated!
Justin left Spain three years ago. However, his Iberian memories still burn bright. Moving forward, Justin has plans to discover his native country more by securing a position that allows him to work remotely. We wish him the best of luck and look forward to hearing about his next five years and beyond. Dreams Abroad is honored that Justin was one of our first members and we appreciate all his contributions.
What an inspiring story! Love hearing about his goals and how he made them happen.
Well done! Such an inspiring story and great experience. Yours is a wonderful idea for an article, most especially during these current times. Thanks so much and take care.
Love this! Justin’s story is inspiring and I wish him the best in the future.
Indeed, we are destined on a path reserved for us. We may have separate ways to go there but it is important to live the moment. But don’t lose focus on your goals. I looked up to Justin for his inspiring story.
I enjoyed reading this! His story is very interesting and inspiring!
2017 was also a year in which I made a big shift in thinking. It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made for my career.
I think that your story is truly inspiring and your article is such a great platform to amplify your story and inspire others too.
I love reading about his story. I admire him for his focus and determination as well as his desire to continuously learn.
It truly sounds like you have had many wonderful experiences to shape your future. Amazing!
Indeed an inspiring story! Nice write-up. Nice to e-meet him. I was amazed at the data science Bootcamp!
What a great interview. I love all the photos.
The pandemic has caused many shifts. For you, job related but as you said, thank goodness no COVID. Each city you are considering has its own special reason to like it as your new home.
Wow! Such a cool story. I like hearing his experiences. I hope to read more like this.
What an inspiring story. Dreams Abroad sounds like a great program.
Sounds like a great five years and you have a solid plan in place to make your dreams come true.
So awesome that you had a dream and jumped after it. Way to crush it.
How wonderful to have secured a remote position. I wish him well too.
That’s really an interesting read. I am feeling inspired and motivated too.
Oh wow, this is really great! Quite an inspirational story!
It is interesting to see what his journey was over the years. Sounds like he has had a lot of neat experiences.
Congratulations to you and I’m really inspired by your story. There are few things more beautiful than making your dreams a reality.
Great story ! It looks like Justin’s adventure of living in Spain was very eventful and joyful. I wish him best of luck on his new journey.