By: Sophia Carlucci
Junior Khaldun Awayssa came Rockbridge as a foreign exchange student. He is staying with Cindy and Mark Miller for two months and then will be moving in with another family. Awayssa noticed a few differences in the school system in America compared to Palestine.
“The culture in Palestine has people that are a lot closer. The students in Palestine are laughing a lot and crazy and people here are a little more quiet. The classes are hard and people are always on time, which is useful. The biggest difference is the language,” said Awayssa.
Awayssa’s first language is Arabic, so he has had to get used to speaking English frequently and to the best of his ability.
“English is the language of the world, so I have been trying my best to speak it all of the time, and it isn’t easy. I am used to living in another world and I need to catch up,” said Awayssa.
Awayssa sees a lot of benefits in coming to America and is excited to experience a different culture, improving his English, and participating in community service.
“It is a new culture with a new community and people. I am looking forward to improving my speaking and learning about the American culture. I would like to have a lot of fun with friends and go places. The nature here is amazing. There is lots of green,” said Awayssa.
Awayssa would like to play on the RCHS soccer team this year and has already started running on the cross country team. He also wants to learn how to swim while in America.
Despite all of the good things about coming to America, Awayssa misses parts of Palestine.
“In Palestine, the food is amazing and I miss my family and friends. It has been two weeks since I have talked to my family. I have contact with them, but it isn’t very important in my culture to talk on the phone,” said Awayssa.
Awayssa is looking forward to this RCHS school year.
“Being an exchange student is like giving you wings to fly and learn about another country’s culture and teaching them about yours. People are always ready to be helpful here. America is amazing,” said Awayssa.