Sydney Heersink, a former Firestone High School student, connected via Skype to the Rotary Club of Akron September 16, 2014, to report on her Rotary Youth Exchange experience in France 2013-2014.  She gave accolades to the club for supporting her and to two of her host families in France for their continued support and mentoring in a new culture.   Examples of cultural faux pas and other cross-cultural adventures never kept Sydney from getting the most from her year abroad.  She was transformed from the shy, quiet girl in the high school classroom to the outgoing, willing to speak to others in a foreign language that she beautifully mastered.  Also challenging were the subjects she studied at the local “lycée.”   After finding that the French are academically ahead of American students, Sydney was placed at a level comparable to a junior rather than senior.   Several French friends helped her understand assignments so she could do her best work.  One of the more difficult aspects of living abroad was making friends.  It was difficult but not impossible.  The host family and siblings are an essential key to the success of the international student’s integration into and comprehension of the new
culture.  If Sydney were given a 2nd chance to do the RYE program, she would jump immediately on board, saying that it was the opportunity of a lifetime and that her life is changed forever and for the good.  She is extremely grateful to Akron Rotary.

 
 
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