My Experience So F - PDF document

My Experience So Far Before coming
My Experience So Far Before coming as an exchange student to the USA last August, I had lots of questions, rules, restrictions and guidelines to my stay. I felt that living in the USA was going to negatively influence me because of the stereotypes I was exposed to. I also felt that I would come back home a different person, changed from the values and possibly not get involved in my faith as I used to. Now, when I look back at those thoughts and feelings, what creeps into my mind is the word “childishness” and a big smile comes on my face. I use to imply that since the USA was a free society, you could shoot someone and walk out a free person. I thought swearing and other bad languages were not frowned upon and most importantly, that no one was interested in religion! I stand corrected now. In fact, I feel safe here and have mental and emotional peace which I dint used to have. I get more involved in my religious activities even more than my home country. My experience has made me had a positive view of the USA. I still know of friends and family back home who still think like how I use to think and I am so ready to sit down with them and erase all those stereotypes. My few months in the USA have been a turning point in my life. Even though I want to become a medical doctor in future, I plan to spend most of my time as an ambassador for my country, building international awareness and promoting peace. It is really easy for a young man to solve a crisis than even a diplomat. My thinking horizon has really widened and it is a good thing. I consider lots of things I d

idn't use to think of when coming up wi
idn't use to think of when coming up with a decision and it has made me more prepared for life. My stay in the USA has been a blast, the best thing that has ever happened to me, off course after giving my life to Jesus Christ. At home, school and church, people are always ready to share their views of the outside world and it is really fascinating when discussing international relations. Kids at school are so nice to de around with and very open minded. Teachers are very patient and ready to accept any contribution even if it sends "coals to Newcastle." The learning atmosphere is relaxed and the student involvement is so outstanding. It builds your self confidence. i now give speeches to large crowds without the fear I use to have. it seems natural now. Before coming, I had never held a tennis racket but when I came I joined the tennis team and the team went to State Championships. the only thing I knew about swimming before coming was to put your head under water and breath for about a minute but now i can swim a 50m lap. All these opportunities came my way due to my exchange experience. Dear readers, please make a dream come true for a young child out there who would love to explore the world and learn more by opening your doors to him/her. Apart from the joy and fun involved in learning new things and the feeling of a whole new country, or even continent, under your roof, exchange students also become lifetime families and that should be your main goal of hosting an exchange student. Welcome a young child to your home and discover the world. Derrick Yevu Accra Ghan