As time is slipping through my fingers, I find myself looking back at my year in Canada. Counting all the wonderful experiences, knowledge I have gained and people I have met makes me feel like one of the luckiest girls in the world. Before I left Norway I would agree to the statement that "Exchange is not a year in a life. It is a life in a year". After living in Yarmouth for nearly 10 months, I can finally say I fully understand it. You actually do build a second life in your host country, and it's challenging to balance the two different lives at the same time. In fact, that is the main reason why I have not been in touch with my Norwegian family and friends as often as normal. I'm currenty caught up in a blend of happiness and sadness. It's impossible to choose side.
It's funny, you go abroad hoping that you will learn more about the big world, but go home and realize that what you learned the most about, is you. Not only you, but also your own culture and home country. Being on my own and away has made me discover what I value, my boundaries, who appreciates me, who I care about, what I dislike, what I love, what I cannot live without and last but not least, how much is yet to be explored. Just thinking of how many great friends I have made from different parts of the world, in this small town called Yarmouth, makes me wonder how many possible friends are out there.
Like I've said a million times, my year has been very close to perfect. There have been irrelevant few downs, compared to the many ups. My host family has taken me into their home and made me a part of the family. The school has offered a great social study environment and all the courses I needed to complete the year. I have had a blast with all the international students and I know for sure that lots of them will remain my best friends. I have also got to bond with a bunch of amazing Canadians. Especially over rugby, a sport we are all passionate about. The Nova Scotia International Student Program has been excellent arranging fun activities, giving guidance and information and being there when needed. My family and friends have continuously messaged me, sent me packages, read my blog, and given me all the love and support they could possibly send over the Atlantic ocean.
If I were to personally thank every single one of you, the speech would go on for days. I would like to thank everyone for making my experience the best it could be. I am indescribably grateful and appreciate you all. Although my life as an exchange student in Canada will soon be over; This is not the end, this is just the beginning. We are young teenagers holding the world in our hands.
Like I've said a million times, my year has been very close to perfect. There have been irrelevant few downs, compared to the many ups. My host family has taken me into their home and made me a part of the family. The school has offered a great social study environment and all the courses I needed to complete the year. I have had a blast with all the international students and I know for sure that lots of them will remain my best friends. I have also got to bond with a bunch of amazing Canadians. Especially over rugby, a sport we are all passionate about. The Nova Scotia International Student Program has been excellent arranging fun activities, giving guidance and information and being there when needed. My family and friends have continuously messaged me, sent me packages, read my blog, and given me all the love and support they could possibly send over the Atlantic ocean.
If I were to personally thank every single one of you, the speech would go on for days. I would like to thank everyone for making my experience the best it could be. I am indescribably grateful and appreciate you all. Although my life as an exchange student in Canada will soon be over; This is not the end, this is just the beginning. We are young teenagers holding the world in our hands.