Orientation 2, Learning about Poland

Today, February 20th, I had my second Rotary Orientation. It was, like the orientation last month, a ton of fun!

At the last orientation each exchange student was given the assignement of writing a research paper on our soon-to-be home country. While of course writing the paper was a lot of work, I really enjoyed it. I realized that I didn't know a whole lot about Poland, but now after writing 13 pages about the country I feel much more informed. Mom, Dad, Aidan, and Sadie all helped write the paper, picking a section to research. I'm really grateful for their support and their research skills!

One aspect that I really enjoyed learning about was Poland's history. As you can read in the paper below, Poland has an incredible history dating back thousands of years. And though I love learning about the medieval period, what really fascinates me is recent past, especailly WWII and life under Communist Rule. I hope to learn more about what life was like during this time period while I'm in Poland next year.

At the orientation today I was able to meet Breanna. Breanna went to Poland in 2008 - 2009 and loved her experience there. It was wonderful to meet her and to have someone to ask all my questions. I learned so much today, just by talking with her and listening to her advice. Also at the orientation today were all the current inbound students. At the beginning of the day each student had to introduce themselves and tell about an experience they have had here. Their stories were hilarious! I don't think I've laughed so hard in a long time! It amazed me how good their English was and how foreign snow really is to many people! The outbounds (me) were able to have lunch with the inbounds and though there is no one from Poland in district this year, I was able to talk with Breanna and the other inbounds! Orientations a so much fun because I continually get to meet new, amazing people!

My country officer told me today that he hopes to send off my information packet to Poland soon, which means that the host club and host family process is about to start! I'm so excited!! I can't wait to start finding out the details. : )