Experiencing what its like to study abroad sounds like a once in a lifetime experience. When senior Kirsten Dagostino was given the chance to do just that, she packed her bags and decided to go to Erkelenz, in northwest Germany through Rotary Exchange.
Living with a host family definitely takes some getting used to. Kirsten said, “Living with a host family is fun! I sometimes feel like I’m watching a reality show accept I have no idea what’s going on because I don’t understand the language.”
School in Germany is completely different than school in the U.S. “I go to school and everyday it ends at a different time so I may come home at 12 or at 3. The school system is so confusing,” she said.
Kirsten had no problem when it came to making friends. She said, “I have made lots of friends! I’m the only exchange student in my town and school. Everyone thinks I live in NYC because no one knows what Long Island is. They like to ask me questions and from that, I have made friends.”
Studying abroad during your senior year is a difficult decision to make. “I knew there would be some regret just because I would miss out on what everyone makes to be the best year of high school…this experience with German school has surely made me miss little WHB things though,” she shared.
Overall Kirsten is happy with her choice. “I’m very happy that I chose to do this. It has made me become more aware of what goes on and has given me the opportunity to meet people from all over the world. Also it’s helping me reach my goal to see the world and learn a new language.”
If you are interested in Rotary Exchange Kirsten is a great person to talk to since she has experienced it firsthand!
