November Youth Exchange News

The following was submitted by Morgan Krakow, Cheyenne East High School student in Brazil.

My year so far can be described in one word: amazing. I have only been in this beautiful country for three months and I have never felt so at home anywhere outside of Wyoming. It hasn't been the easiest thing I've ever done in my life but I have not regretted one second of it. I'm learning more about myself by interacting with an unfamiliar culture everyday. I have gained so much patience in the past few months, because as most of you know...Brazilians are notoriously laid back people. My goal on this exchange was to learn the language and maybe make a few friends. Now that I'm here I realize that this exchange is not about the language. It's about learning about and becoming one with a society that was so foreign only weeks ago. It's about taking chances and doing things you never would have in your home country. It's about living a life that you only get one short shot at, so you better make the best of it. My exchange is changing my life and I'm saddened by the thought that I will have to return home in seven months. Rotary has given me the best gift anyone could receive and I am extremely thankful.