Exchange Student Update
Just a quick update this time, for my favourite Rotary club!
The last few months, I feel like I'm getting into the "sweet spot" of exchange. I feel like I'm at home in Recife. I have a diverse group of friends, built of people that I know I can trust. I'm still adjusting to my new host family. They're very busy working and studying, so I'm glad that I've attained some independence here: things that were once difficult like calling people to go out and working the public transport system have become my way of life.
I really enjoyed Carnaval here in Recife. They were some of the most tiring days of my life! I divided it between my family, my friends, and the other exchange students. At the end, my family took me to their beautiful beach house. I spent a tranquil couple of days recuperating from all that dancing in 30 degree heat; just reading and writing (in Portuguese, of course). Lately I've been participating more with my Rotary club and seeing more of my counsellor. I'm arranging to give my Canada/Brazil presentation during a meeting soon to come. As well, I'm getting on board volunteering with a women's support organization that my club is very involved with.
It's hard to believe that I only have four months left. Thanks to the club for sending me on this amazing exchange. I'm blessed to have great support from our district. (And thank you for congratulating me on getting into McGill!)
Catherine Hilgers
If anyone would like to email me, I'm available at gocatherine@hotmail.com