My year!

Kopioin tan yhdesta blogista ja anteeks jos jotkut ei jaksa englantia lukea, mut oon liian laiska kaantamaan suomeksi.

1. The first, biggest question: WHY did you decide to leave your home for a year?

The idea came to my mind when a returnee told our class about his experience in America and it sounded like fun. I was 15 years old, so I had to make my decision really fast, but I haven't regret it at all!

2. When did you spend your exchange year?

August 2010 - June 2011

3. What was/is your new home country, so where did/do you spend your exchange year?

Oregon, US. I mostly spend my time in Newport (where my school is), even though I live in Seal Rock.

4. Did/Do you often feel homesick?

I feel like I have felt more homesick now than in the beginning. I guess it's because I know I'm going home soon and I'm so excited to see everybody so I realized how much I miss everyone. But it has never stopped me having fun and enjoying my time here. It's been great!

5. What is the best thing you have experienced during your exchange year?
The people I've met. They are so amazing! People are super nice here and they really know how to enjoy life. And also I loved traveling with my amazing host family and friends! Swimming was so much fun too, and I miss it soooooooo much!

6. What is the worst thing you have experienced during your exchange year?

I don't know... Maybe tests at school? haha, I dunno, they're actually pretty easy. Well, I don't like my spanish teacher, she's so unfair.

7. What did your parents say when you told them that you want to travel abroad for a year?

My mom has done it too so she said it was ok, except at first when I said that I wanna do this and she thought it was just one of my "great" ideas (I usually change my mind about things pretty fast). But when she realized I really want to do it she was supportive and I think my dad was sad to see his "little girl" go! Haha!

8. How about your friends?

They were jealous and said that I better bring them many expensive American stuff! Haha, I'm kidding, they were supportive too and I love how they have cared about me and what I do here and they've helped me a lot! I have an amazing group of friends, love you all!

9. What do you think is the most important thing that exchange year can teach/did teach you?

It taught me a lot about myself. I have learned so much but I guess the most important thing is that I've learned to appreciate everything I have and look at things in a positive way. And also I speak fluent English, haha!

10. Did/Do you have a nice hostfamily?

They are great! My sister is so cute and funny and we get along so well, even though we are not even that similar! Maybe that's the reason? My mom is so nice and smart and we have good conversations and my dad's just great. He always makes me laugh! And Cory... He is the cutest and funniest little thing I've seen! I love him so much, cause he's the first dog I've had!

11. What is the school you went/go to, and did/do you like it?

Newport High. I like it, because it's small (about 700 people) and everyone pretty much knows each other so it's nice and cozy. The teachers are so laxed and the rules are not too strict.

12. What is the first thing you're going to do when you'll go back home. Or, what was the first thing if you have already come back home?

I'm gonna spend so much time with my family and friends!!! I can't wait to see you all!! But it is nice to sleep in my bed again. (not that there's anything wrong with the one I have here, it's big and comfy!) OH and I'm gonna tan!!

13. What did/do you miss most from your home country?

Family and friends and the food without butter, cheese and wheat. I like cheese, but I don't think I've ever eaten this much cheese in my life!

14. Last things that people said you before you left home?

Good luck, have fun, don't die, miss you... and stuff like that :)

15. What kind of advices you would give to new exchange students?
Enjoy your year as much as you can! Take advantage of every opportunity you get and don't spend too much time on your computer. Take a lot of photos!! They'll give you so many memories. And write a journal (blog too if you want, but journal is important cause it stays longer and doesn't disappear in the internet!). AAAAND BE POSITIVE AND SMILE :))