One of the biggest stepping stones in my life...
Leila Fleita Zain
Argentina
Class of 2005 - 2006
When I was preparing to come for my year in Georgia, I knew this was going
to be one of the biggest stepping stones in my life, and that made me
tremble. I came with a lot of expectations, anxiety, and questions, but
also with an open mind, open to new experiences. When I look back, I
realize what this stepping stone means in the scope of my whole life. This
makes me smile.
I have gained a lot. I have had the unique experience of living on an
American college campus with American students (and soldiers). I have
expanded my knowledge in Business and of the American culture. But there
are two things that had the biggest effect on me: |
- The marvelous possibility of meeting and
getting to know other GRSP students from all over the world. I realize
now, more than ever, how valuable it is to understand that diversity is
important and that peace is possible. Imagine if we were all the same.
Imagine if we agreed about politics, religion and morality. Imagine if
we all liked the same types of music, art, food and coffee. Imagine if
we all looked alike. Sound boring? Differences need not divide us.
Diversity is exciting, interesting, different and new all the time.
Differences in religion, culture, politics, and education are ways to
make us know each other and enjoy life. Diversity is a way to bring the
nations together and make this world a place of peace. Peace is
possible! And dignity is every human's right!
- The second most important change in my
life is that after being a GRSP student and noticing how the GRSP
program contributes to peace by bringing the nations together through
the Rotary Clubs, I want to continue being a part of this. In the
future, I want to be a Rotary member. I want to help my community and I
want to keep promoting the GRSP program.
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Another important thing that I do not want
to forget is to say how grateful I am to my host families and my Rotary
Club. I missed my own family a lot, but the Rices and the Duncans made me
feel at home all the time. They gave me love; they spoiled me and
supported me all the time, just as my own family would. There were
constantly there for me, and I could not have made it without them.
I want to thank the GRSP program, all the Rotarians who made this
possible, and all of the GRSP students. I also want to thank the Forsyth
Rotary Club and my trustee, Mike Sweigart and his family. And most
importantly, I want to thank my family in Argentina, all of whom have
supported me during my time here. |
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