Carolina

2011-12 Inbound from Brazil

Sponsor: Rotary Club of Curvelo Norte, District 4760, Brazil

Host: Rotary Club of Big Pine & Lower Keys, District 6990, Florida

Carolina's Bio

  I have two older sisters. Both have already participated in exchange programs. Marcia went to the state of Wyoming, in the United States, and Marcela, to Norway. Both of my sisters have told me that their exchange was one the best experiences of their lives. Hearing their stories made me excited to experience the same adventure.

  I am currently living in the Florida Keys, which is like a paradise for me, since I have always lived far from the sea in my home country. The moment I arrived here, I noticed that Florida is as warm as my home state. However, while my state has a dry air, here is so humid! Even the American food is quite different from mine, I have been falling in love with it. It is so delicious... At high school, I love the fact of people being so different from each other in their hair and dress styles, thinking and preferences.

  In Brazil, I had to take 12 subjects at school, and General History, Literature, and English were my favorite ones. Also, I had to know all Math formulas and could not use calculator at all for the exams. Here, I take six subjects, and calculator is allowed as well as formula sheet to help me in the exam.

  The difference of cultures fascinates me since I was a little girl. I always have been interested in countries' languages, cultures, people... This exchange is a dream come true. I have met people from all around the world, I've made new friends, I've been practicing my English every day, and I am getting to know myself. In the end of my exchange year, I believe I will see a more independent, responsible and grateful person in myself.

  I am very lucky, and thankful to the RYE program, my beloved parents, sisters and to my dear host family, who are always helping and supporting me.