What to Expect

Dear reader,
If you are thinking about signing someone you know up for the RYE, or are signing up yourself, take note that it will be a lot of work. The RYE is really 3 years, not just 1 (the year before, during, and after the exchange). The application is long and cumbersome, and even after that, there are a lot of things you have to take care of. However, even though it is a lot of work, I believe that it is one of the best programs to go abroad with. The price of over $6,000 seems like a lot, but compared to other programs, it really isn't. Also, all the Rotarians I have met really care about me and want me to have the best exchange possible. They will help me do whatever I need in order for that to occur. I will/have got to meet a bunch of cool people that will help me have a successful exchange. So just know that if what you are getting into before you sign up and not after.
Your blogger,
Willow

Fund Raising T-shirt

This design is going to be the design for the tee that I get printed to fund raise for my trip.  I am going to get sponsors on the back.  Gold sponsors: $1000, silver sponsors: $500, and bronze sponsors: $250. The bigger the donation, the larger the spot. The t-shirts will be $25, or $20 for an order of three or more. They will be black with neon letters. I'm so excited!!

The December Conferance

We had the first RYE event this weekend. We went to Ancilla College and had a Christmas party/seminar (mostly the party part). There were many outbound students and inbound students there, and all of them were really nice. I will be an outbound student of America, and an inbound student of whatever country I get sent to. We had an international feast, played fun games, and had a talent show. Most importantly, I got to know everyone  and ask the inbounds questions. Everyone cares about each other and I think they are going to be a second family to me for the next several years.They answered all my questions, and put my mind at rest. I am still nervous about speaking a different language that I'm not fluid with, but not much else. Mainly I realized that we're all in the same boat.

Introduction

 Hi! I am a Rotary Youth Exchange student from Indiana. On this site, will share thoughts, ideas, and updates on my adventure. I hope to go to Spain, Chile, or Peru next year, but do not know where I will end up. Wherever I go, I'll be happy to be going abroad!! :-) Please make a comment with any feedback if you are reading my blog. Thank you,
Enjoy!