6/2/2004 - Culture Shock and Snow in North Carolina
So far, my experience has been excellent! I’ve already passed through some stages…I coped with challenges, I broke through barriers, I adjusted to a new culture and learned a lot.
In the first months I had to deal with the so-called “culture shock,” but my enthusiasm about knowing heaps of new things was so strong that I hardly felt the “culture shock.” There were so many things happening at the same time, that I did not even have time to miss neither my parents nor my friends. My host-family received me very well. In school the teachers treated me very nicely, and some students, although not many, were curious about knowing me.
I always kept myself busy by dedicating much time to my studies and getting involved in school activities. I joined four clubs: ... the AFS club, the French club and the FBLA club, which has to do with business administration. Besides the improvement of my communication abilities, this was an opportunity to learn more about issues of my interest and make new friends. Once a month, we, the AFS exchange students who live in the state of North Carolina, have a meeting on a weekend where we enjoy ourselves, exchange experiences and learn a little bit about our different cultures. All this helped me to feel well and protected me from thinking of giving-up when something was going badly.
The last two months have been fabulous…I made new friends and the Christmas atmosphere suddenly made me feel even better. I had a merry Christmas with my family. A Christmas like I always desired it: With a lot of snow like I used to see it in the American movies! I spent New Years Eve at a ski-station, watching beautiful fireworks and toasting with hot chocolate.
I am very happy. I feel adapted to the culture and the life style. I am secure with the language. I like the place where I live. It is very beautiful. The four seasons of the year are distinguished, which is a new experience for me. I enjoy the rich nature here in the northeastern region of North Carolina. I also can experience the snow.
I promise to continue making the best out of this opportunity that you have given me.
Karina Leal
RR Donnelley Corporate Scholarship Winner
Brazil to USA, 2004
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