“I have so much to say about my year in Finland. I can’t think of a profound way to sum it all up, but I guess that’s because it’s about the little things. I drink coffee every morning out of my Muumi mug, which my host grandmother gave me at Christmas. I use my Marimekko pencil bag every day. I still listen to Finnish rap, and keep my Facebook page in Finnish. My best friend from Finland is now an au pair in New York City and comes to my house every Thanksgiving for dinner. I will be visiting my three families in Pori during spring break this year. It’s just been amazing to me how much continuity the program has had in my life. Yes, it was one amazing year, but it has extended far beyond those 12 months; it has changed my life, and stays with me always. The little things, and the big things. I am not sure exactly where I’m going but I know being an exchange student put me on the right path. THANK YOU ROTARY!!!!”
