First Day Filled with Surprises
This Bosnian's #1!
I was so nervous that morning! It was my first bus drive to school ever, and it was my first and last "first day" at an American high school. I wanted to make a good impression. When we got on the bus, I played all kinds of different scenarios in my head.
When we arrived at the school gates, the bus driver asked us (me and my double placement Cherry) where we were from. She said Thailand, and I said Bosnia. Then suddenly, he started speaking my language!! I was so shocked that it took me a minute to process what I heard! I knew it would be a good first day.
When I make a mistake, they don't laugh, they say, 'It's okay, nice try, you'll get it next time, Kat!' That is beautiful to me.
We had an assembly in the morning. They had this giant American flag and everyone got up to say the Pledge of Allegiance. I didn't know it, so I just stood there, processing everything.
Everything felt surreal, like a scene from the movie. I knew at that moment that I would love this school. My teachers are amazing! Every single one of them is so good at teaching and communicating with the students—it's unbelievable.
During classes, I met so many amazing people. They were so friendly, and they kept asking me questions about Bosnia and Herzegovina! They were eager to know where I came from and that was really nice of them.
I started playing volleyball and the girls there are also amazing, supportive, and friendly. When I make a mistake, they don't laugh, they say, "It's okay, nice try, you'll get it next time, Kat!" That is beautiful to me. I feel happy in school, and the people there make me feel welcomed, and loved.
—Katarina (YES, Bosnia and Herzegovina), hosted by the Quay family (WA)
