Farewell Rotary Exchange Student 2011-2012: Matina L'Ala (Italy)

First of all thank you Rotary for the wonderful time and the opportunity to participate in this program and to spend time in this amazing country. During this year I have done things that people could never imagine in my town, as bungee jumping, going to RYLA, going to Hornby Island and going to Victoria, Whistler & Vancouver.  Boating and fishing; taking a ride in a small airplane around Squamish and Whistler; shopping in the US; hiking the Chief and seeing animals i couldn't ever see in Italy. I have travelled a lot and I've met such amazing people as all the four host families who I stayed with. I have been through tough situations and I always knew that somebody could help if I needed it. At first I can't say that my exchange was easy- new country; new people; new culture .

That was the tough period of my life. I missed home, family and friends.

But after two months I started enjoying Canada. I made good friends, people I would never forget. In fact Jessica leas and Christie Lowe, two of my best friends are coming to my place for 20 days. My families were so good with me, changing families helped me understand the variety of Canadian culture . All of them took a little place in my heart and I will never forget how much love they could give to someone that is not even their daughter. I wish everyone could be in an exchange, just to understand that being different is not a defect but it's what makes the world wonderful.

Thanks again amazing Rotarians. See you in few years.

Ciao !!!!!!!!
With so much love,
Martina (the crazy Italian with curly hair)