I've found this trip to be full of experiences where I've had to show self-advocacy. Being by myself for the first time so far away from home is very stressful, and getting discouraged is very easy. I've been homesick my entire time here, although I've pushed myself to overcome and enjoy my trip as much as possible. More than once I've had to give myself time alone, time to catch up on duties, and time to just keep up with my concerned family. My mentor, host family, and other staff have given me a lot of support in efforts to make my time here the best, which I appreciate the most. Letting them know I needed that support was difficult and embarrassing at first, though, because I felt so naive and lost. However, I've come to realize that it was better for me to have done so, instead of making my trip miserable.
I've tried my best to follow the guidelines, and they've worked fabulously for me. I don't think we'll be forgotten mostly because the school is just so excited to have helpers from America. Our schedule sometimes gets packed with teachers wanting us to visit their classroom. I hope that we're leaving a good impression on the staff and students and that they've found our advice and critique to be helpful.
I've tried my best to follow the guidelines, and they've worked fabulously for me. I don't think we'll be forgotten mostly because the school is just so excited to have helpers from America. Our schedule sometimes gets packed with teachers wanting us to visit their classroom. I hope that we're leaving a good impression on the staff and students and that they've found our advice and critique to be helpful.