Bella Cooke outbound exchange student to Germany.
This is just a small update to let everyone know about my exchange so far.
I've now been in Germany for six wonderful months living an absolute dream. In these six months I've been able to immerse myself in German culture, learn a new language, discover marvellous cities, meet incredible people from all around the world and grow as a person. I strongly believe that through these experiences I've grown into a much more independent, self-reliant and educated girl with a fresh view on the world. Not one day is the same, I go to school, I travel, I spend time with my host family and friends, try new things. There are so many similarities and differences between Germany and Australia that there is always a chance to learn.
My first host family the Paha family taught me all about German culture, helped me settle into this amazing country and also gave me a family away from home. My current/second host family, Schultz family have taught me so much more about the German language and given me a new perspective on German life. I will move families again end of August. Learning German has really been an adventure, I would be lying if I said it's been easy. But I wouldn't trade this opportunity for the world. Learning a second language has opened my eyes to a new world. I've developed a greater understanding of English at the same time. I can communicate comfortably and happily in German and enjoy learning more every day.
Meeting and spending time with my exchange student family has literally been life changing. I'm now so much more aware of the world. I've learnt about the cultures, the people, the food, the languages of countries from Ecuador to Japan, Brazil to Canada, Italy to Mexico. It's actually amazing and in the process I've made some of the greatest friends in the world.
At school I've developed a new perspective on school life, seen how others do things and learnt so much in the process. I've made many great German friends who I love spending time with.
I am so incredibly grateful for this opportunity and it would not have been possible without the outstanding efforts of Rotarians, the clubs and the districts. Both Grovedale Rotary club plus district 9780 and also my club in Germany Karlsruhe-Baden and our district 1930. I do not have enough words to express my gratitude and thank everyone who has been a part of making this dream possible.
My gorgeous family, who I miss dearly but are still always there to support me when I need it.
Thank you, really.
And see you all in six months!
