Participants Blog

Ink Shedding #3

I think that I have made a big impact on my host family as a whole. The relationship which has developed between us is reciprocal- we have learnt much from each other- a different way of life, language skills, a small window into a far away culture, and kindness and sharing. I am privileged to have been welcomed into this family for my six week placement. I know my time there affected each individual within the family differently and will be an experience they will not soon forget. A relationship built between two people from opposite ends of the Earth, from different cultures, who speak different languages is magical in itself and a true blessing.
My host Mother has had many exchange students before, including other intercordia participants. She had a pre-conceived notion of what I was going to be like and how I was going to respond.  I certainly broke her assumptions and showed her my uniqueness. She would often say that another participant did this thing differently, or that she thought I would do things this way not that. I like to think that I have reminded her of the uniqueness of all individuals no matter what culture, or nationality they are.