Rotary: Henriette Holm - Exchange student
I never want to go home!
That was the first comment out of the mouth of one of our most favourite exchange students when Henriette Holm's said her farewell to our club.
"It was a nice, day in Vancouver when I arrived Aug 21, 2011.
Leaving Denmark, and my parents, there were no tears.
I knew I would meet new people and enjoy every day although I had no expectations.
Prior to landing & despite no sleep for 24 hours, the sight of the mountains exhilarated me.
As the days went by I saw MacDonalds & Best Buy everywhere and, though I didn't like coffee, the many Starbucks visits made me a convert.
First day at school I was nervous and the other kids thought I was grade 9 and not grade 11. Not funny! And the lockers! It looked like I was in one of those American movies as we don't have them at home in Denmark.
'Hi I'm Henriette' got a strange response but the other students soon became welcoming and my confidence increased.
Let's see....what have been the major impacts on me?
First meeting at Coquitlam Sunrise I got HUGS from everyone. What a difference from back home!
I met other exchange students who are now friends for life.
I love BC's nature even though the bear took my smores.
The big city is my new fav but I miss the old buildings at home.
Skiing has been great...I love it!
Took 5 tours, spent time downtown, enjoyed Christmas, Seattle, Hard Rock Cafe, District Conference...all these experiences were great but it will be hard to say goodbye to my host families who allowed me to be myself and were so encouraging. They took me everywhere!
When I get home Iwill be the best host for the Brazilian Exchange student who will stay at my home because I have learned so much of what the needs of the student are.
I am surprised that Vancouverites know so little about their own city.
Lessons I've learned:
How I see other people;
Be involved;
Accept others as they are;
Don't worry about what others think of me...just do good and good things will happen."
Henriette shared her passions (travel, photography) and said that she will not allow studies to become her only focus but will explore those passions, meeting and engaging with new people.
She mentioned that she must try, every day, to stay out of the circle of mediocrity.
We asked, "Are you sad or excited about going back?"
She answered with, "Yes. Both. But I am living in the present."
For those of us who have been with Henriette, even a little, know that to be her most obvious gift (except for her permanent smile).
Returning home she is aware that everyone will have a new perspective and see each other in different ways.
What will she do?
Take time off. Study Spanish, German, Geography & Photo Journalism. She will work hard for what she wants. Come back to Canada.
All those and more we know Henriette will do.
Oh, and by the way, she says her cheeks hurt.
Goodby Henriette and thanks for bringing so much joy to us all!