The Beginning

And so it begins. I will be leaving this little, farm town for the big city in less then twelve hours. I have been asked over and over if I am frightened. The answer is no. I have no room for fear, only for excitement. 

Starting tomorrow I will be having a 30 day black out, where I do not directly contact family and friends from home in hopes to become more integrated in Finnish culture. This is how I am going to document the next thirty days and of course the whole year.

Now a little bit about this adventure...

I started one year ago with the training and since that time I have fallen in love with the idea of the world: the people, the ideas, the sights. I spent days filling out paper work and attending doctors appointment's. I went to many interviews and dinners. I spent time learning that every culture is correct.

I decide to become a Rotary Youth Exchange Student.

On February fourth, I found out the county which has been selected for me was Finland. At first all I knew was it was north of Germany and really cold. I know more now, thank goodness!

I have said my goodbyes and I am all packed. One suit case for one year!

Now on August 3, 2014 I will arrive in Helsinki, Finland to be a Rotary Youth Exchange Student for the year of my life. 

I am so thankful for all the help from friends, teachers, family and well just community during the journey to arrive at the point of departure. (and of course for the time to come)

I have spent one year preparing and I have already had the experiences of a lifetime and have met amazing people. I cannot wait to see what the year a holds.


If you wish to contact me here is the information!

facebook- Annalee Sekulic
email- annalee.sekulic@gmail.com
(instagram for the exchange is soon to arrive!)

Exchange is not a year in your life it is a life in a year.