A couple weeks ago, I decided that I might be interested in foreign exchange. I began to research different exchange programs and found Rotary International to be my top choice. Today I talked with the chair person of our district (7170), and another interested student for a couple hours. He informed me of what I needed to know about Rotary at this point. My application is due sometime in September for an eleventh grade exchange. The application and acceptance process takes a year, so that’s why it was important to decide so soon. I know that to be accepted, an applicant must go through a couple paperwork applications, plus several interviews. I’m a little nervous about the interviews, but excited as well. September seems like a while away, but I’m sure it’ll sneak up on me rather quickly.
Although the country you visit isn’t entirely up to you, you are able to rank your top five after the “passport fair.” It’s a meeting that lasts all day during which you are presented with information about each of the countries our district exchanges with. The district chairperson told me that almost always, students are able to go to a country in their top three. I haven’t decided what my top five choices are, which is good because I have some time for that. I’m looking at Australia and Italy right now, along with the Scandinavian countries. The problem with going to Australia is that they speak English, and one of the many amazing things about Rotary is the fact that in about three months, a student will become fluent in the country’s language. Also, Italy is extremely popular among exchange students, so it will be very competitive to get into. I’m sure my ideas will change throughout the summer. I’ll keep them posted.
Since my application isn’t due until September, there’s not much worrying or preparation I can do right now. Next week I’m going to meet with my guidance counselor regarding my school schedule next year. I’m going to try and get as ahead as I possibly can, so that if accepted, I can return from a foreign country without having to worry about not graduating. This will be a memorable and huge thing in my life, so I want to be prepared. If accepted, I’ll be leaving in a little over a year. That’s not too far away. That’s why it’s so important to be organized and begin the application process as soon as possible. I’m looking forward to this adventure. As corny as it sounds, it’s true.
Posted by rotarygirl 