Studying Abroad

Photo taken by: Anson

      Studying abroad is always a good experience for those who are able to travel and have the support of those around them.  International students who first travel to the United States always need help because everything is different from their home country and they always need more time to adjust to American culture. I understand what an international exchange student thinks and what is needed because I am one of them.  International exchange students like me who come from a totally different background are always eager to explore new things and learn about the different culture.

      I am one of the 37 fortunate international exchange students who came to the United States in 2008-2009 to study abroad. Coming from Afghanistan, I had so many worries such as: being away from my family, adjusting to food and American culture, financial support and my future. For the first time I arrived in the US, I lived in San Antonio, Texas for a week just to get familiar with American schooling and expectations of living with an American family.  One year of living with a wonderful American host family and going to a public school in Maine was my best experience. I had good food and I didn’t really feel that I was alone because everywhere I went people showed respect and supported me in everything. Finally I come to the point to decide staying in the United States to continue my education.  

      After two years of challenging work in a boarding school at The Putney School in Vermont and being away from my family I realized that now I am ready to face another four year of challenge in college.  Obviously in every one's high school senior year it is very hard to decide what college to apply and where to go but I believe I made the right decision to apply to Champlain College because I never wanted to go to a big University.  

Champlain College will be my home for the next few years and is the right size school for me.