The first couple days of school in Italy have gone very well! My class was very welcoming when I arrived on the first day. Many were curious and interested in what things are like in the United States. I got a good earful of English as well, for almost every student that I spoke with wanted to practice/show their English skills. I must say many of them speak quite well. Makes me think even more that there should be stricter language requirements in America high schools.

On the first day during history class, the history teacher let me come to the front of the class room and tell the class a little bit about myself and they asked me many questions. I have already made plans with some groups of students in my class to go out and explore the city!

One thing that shocked me was the number of kids in my class that smoke--over half of them after class are walking around with self-rolled joints of tobacco. They are all very nice, though. Their class has never had an exchange student, so it is very new for everyone! Today I had school, but normally school only goes from Monday until Friday--there is no Saturday class. My youngest brother, Felipe, helped me prepare my backpack before the first day of school(: He made sure that I had all my materials. I am missing Fargo, but I am loving Rome! I hope all that are in school back home are enjoying their year. A big hug from across the ocean!

Greetings from Italy!

I have arrived in Italy safe and sound! I had such a great time getting to know all of the AFS'ers from all over the world. It's so fun to see other people with the same interests as I go on my adventure. The first few days felt almost unreal. With a mix of flights, languages, jet lag and meeting so many different people, everything felt like a dream! After a good night's sleep, it started to sink in that I am in a different county, and I am very excited.

My family is fantastic, I have already played lots with my youngest brother and explored the city center with my other brother. There is so much to see, I'm not even sure if I can cram it all into one year of being here! Anyway, I have started my Italian classes, which I will be taking twice a week, and school will be starting soon for me. Greetings from Italy!