Rotary International Youth Exchange started in 1929 to promote international understanding, build goodwill and give students an authentic cultural experience by placing them in host families in their host country. The students attend school and live as a family member, they are supported by a wide Rotary network in both their host country and sponsor country. In 2017, District 9910 has sent 12 young, bright, ambitious students to Europe and South America. In return, we will host students. This report is from Ebony Johnson, who is currently living in France on a Rotary International Youth Exchange.

Winter is arriving in France, which means Christmas is just around the corner. Nights get darker earlier, and T-shirts are nowhere to be seen (however some French girls are still crazy with their skirts and denim jackets in five degree weather) my money is slowly running out, evident in the fact that my train rides to Nantes every weekend are no longer possible. I have one more Rotary weekend left, which is a sad thought, but it’ll be so nice to see everyone again. Then I’ve got Christmas, New year’s eve, and four plane rides till I’m back in New Zealand.

With two months to go, happiness and sadness have never been so intertwined. Living in France has become normal now, but it doesn’t stop me from missing home. I see my friends at school, on the weekends, and am reminded of how soon I’ll be leaving them all, along with a sense of excitement that I’ll see my best friends after a year. Exchange has given me an amazing opportunity, to learn a language, experience a new culture, but I’m most thankful for my new families and all the friends I’ve made. 

Viola! Your Rotary Exchange Student, Ebony.

If you’d like to know more please visit: www.rotaryyouthexchange.co.nz