Youth Exchange student update

Dear Mr Hargrave and Sun City Rotary Members,

I have now lived on the French Riviera for close to two months and life here is very different. I am enjoying the independence of public transportation and the cool weather, not to mention the spectacular scenery, and delicious food.

I attend a very large (even by American standards) high school, and my schedule changes frequently, with often quite long breaks in between lessons. I have made friends with most people in my class, and I am now able to understand most of the conversations, although my speaking skills lag behind. I feel certain with more time, these skills will improve greatly.

I have an amazing host family, who have introduced me to their friends and relatives, and I feel very comfortable in their home. My host sister Cassandre and I get along really well. My host family doesn't speak much English, so I am truly immersed in French culture when at home.

Last week our group of Rotary exchange students spent the day in Saint Tropez. It is such a beautiful area, and it was fun to get together with a bunch of people who share so much in common with me.

I feel very lucky to be close to Cannes, and I am able to take the bus into town to meet friends whenever I want. I love the café culture in France, and it is great just to be able to sit and people watch with a group of friends. This week I went to the movies, and I was able to understand most of the dialogue, so I think I am definitely becoming assimilated!

One of the things I love about this place is that it does not really matter how fattening those delicious French patisseries are, I know I will burn up the calories very quickly because we all walk  so much here. In fact, I have lost weight since arriving, because I am much more active in my day to day life.

I am very grateful for this experience, I have given you some of the details of my life here in France, but words cannot adequately express the feelings. I think only those who go on an exchange can understand what I am saying.

Until next time,

Cairo Geha