The Process (Part Two)

          Olá a todos! I hope you've had a good April; I know I have! In my last post I started to talk a little bit about the process of becoming an exchange student. Okay, now where was I?

          Well, once you decide you want to do exchange the next step is finding a program that interests you. Lots of schools have information nights where you can learn about different programs and what they have to offer. My dad and I went to the informational night at my school when I was a freshman, and decided that Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) and AFS would be the best options for what I was looking for--a year-long study abroad program in a foreign country.

          In september, shortly after starting my freshman year, RYE had their own information night. The club members talked to us about their program and how to apply, and we signed up for an email list so we could stay updated.

          In October I had my first interview with the local club, which I passed. Then lots of paperwork ensued, as well as a three-page letter about myself, and letters from both of my parents. My paper application was sent off to the district head to review, where upon approval would sent to my host country and family. We also received a list of available countries, and I picked 5 first, second, and third choices to write down on the selection form. In December I had another interview in Victoria, BC which is the central meeting place for our whole rotary district. This interview was mostly to get an idea of which country would be the best fit for me. They told me it would be another three weeks before I found out what country I was going to, but they were super speedy and so I ended finding out less than a week later. The club's Latin American country contact officer called to personally tell me that I would be going to District 4550 Bahia, Brazil! Once you find out what country you're going to the real fun begins!

          But this post is getting awfully long isn't it? I think I'll leave you with a cliffhanger. Oh the suspense! Stay tuned though, I'll try to finish the story soon, I promise!

*An exchange student is called an intercambista in Portuguese.