Annually, Rotary International sends high school students on exchange so that they may experience new cultures. This year, the Rotary Club of Tulsa hosted Lise Delafuys from Auray, France. She lived with three host families and experienced life as an American teenager attending Bishop Kelley High School where she made the honor roll and was a cheerleader.
5 things I learned on exchange:
1. I enjoyed so much living in a big city (Tulsa). In France, I live in a very small town of 3,000 people. I have always wanted to live in a city. I love how it is always alive. Lots of places are open 24/7 and people hang out after dinner outside.
2. In Tulsa, there are a variety of things to do. Most of my American friends would disagree with this point but for me it was very new to hangout so much outside of the school. It is simple, in Tulsa you can find everything you need.
3. I would say that Tulsa, as in other American cities, teenagers have a different way of living. The school system is different than in France - the days are shorter, the classes more interesting and easier, the teachers are friendlier.
4. During my exchange year, I mainly learned to be myself. I learned to not fear the person I am deep inside. It caused me to understand that mistakes make us grow up and not drag us down.
5. I feel more mature, self-confident, open-minded and positive. I’ll bring that with me back to France.
To apply, visit 6110StudyAbroad.com.