The daily life of exchange students

Zofia Kacprzak, FLEX 20’

“My favorite part of my exchange was the moment when suddenly and unexpectedly it all—the school, the friends,
the host community—became home, familiar and not so “foreign” anymore. ”

Going to D&W, the same one I’ve been picking up groceries from for months, and for the first time not being surprised by the sight of countless candy bars, drinks and other foods that not so long ago I only saw in the movies.  Going to school in my pjs, which again not so long ago, sounded like something I would never do. The moment when I realized that I don’t think nor dream in Polish anymore. Suddenly remembering the bus schedule in my town and not getting lost at school anymore.

All those little things, even though they sound not important and silly, bring me so much joy and I’ll cherish them forever, because those small, unimportant things prove that I’ve become a well-integrated member of my host community. 

FLEX is so much more than just an exchange program. It’s an adventure, it’s meeting new people who soon become your family, it’s finding new home on the other side of the globe. It’s growing up and becoming an experienced, young adult who is ready to make the World a better place.