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Izzat El-Hajj, Lebanese Student Grade 10
May 2005 BRIDGE Exchange Lebanon to Verona High School, Madison, WI
Synopsis of Izzat's Personal Reflection
The main question is,
what did I learn about from this trip? Well, what didnít I? This trip
has taught me about many things from how the Court of Justices decides
who will right the case article, to how to hold a kitchen knife while
cutting the tails off the radishes. So where do I startÖ? The
main purpose of this exchange, I guess, is cultural trade. We were
[here] to learn about American culture, and at the same time teach them
about Lebanese. What did I teach about my culture? Well just about
everything from Geography, to History, to Music, to Sports, [and our]
way of life...Overall, are presentations on Lebanon were quite
successful. The next question is: what did I learn about their culture?
Well the American culture is very similar to that of the Lebanese and
at the same time, very different.
This exchange
program was truly a huge success, and this was all due to the great
contribution of the school, the students, the teachers, the families,
and a great man named Sabi. Being able to talk with the people on the
forums prior to the actual exchange was also a great facilitator as it
made us more comfortable with the people before meeting them.
[This] gave us a jumpstart at the beginning of the physical
exchange...Finally, I come to talk about my personal growth during this
exchange. Naturally, experiences such as these are great character
builders. Now that I reflect upon my evolution during this trip, I feel
that I have gained confidence, maturity, and wisdom, and have seen
these traits develop in my colleagues as well. In addition, I have
learned to appreciate and value my family, friends, and country more,
to become [an] overall...better person. Thank you BRIDGE III for
selecting me to be part of this wonderful trip. Thanks to everyone who
has worked hard to support this program. Thanks to iEARN. Thanks to
VAHS with itís students and teachers. Thanks to both my host families:
the Pitterles and the Smithbacks. Thanks to all my Lebanese
colleagues...It has been my pleasure.
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