EIL Intercultural Learning

Let me introduce myself... I’m Laura, 17 years of age, living in Fermoy but going to school in Coláiste An Phiarsaigh. I’m one of the twelve lucky young people who’ll be representing Ireland in a Youth Exchange to Hong Kong come the 10th of August. The beginning of my journey to Hong Kong began where all great things do... On Facebook!

Having my Transition Year work experience in Galway cancelled due to the ‘Big Freeze’, my face lit up as I scrolled through pictures and blogs of previous exchanges. Having been doing karate since I was 10, and learning Japanese in school for the year, my attention was immediately drawn to the Hong Kong exchange as I've always been fascinated by the Eastern way of life.

I was blessed when I heard that the interviews were to be held in my native county, like all Cork people, I’m fairly reluctant to travel to Dublin unless it’s to go to Croker. Being amongst the youngest of the people applying, walking into a room full of  mostly college students, it was intimidating to say the least. But after a few minutes I realised we were all in the same boat and we chatted away at our ease.

I got the phone call from Fiona while I was visiting my Grandparents. Their reaction was one of both disbelief and uncertainty. Trying to explain to people who are 70-odd years of age that I won't starve/get lost/die  has to be my great achievement in life to date! I hadn’t even  bothered telling anyone in school about the interview, to save myself the hassle more than anything, as I didn’t think I’d have much a chance.  But their support and best wishes has been amazing so far, so they must be looking for souvenirs of some kind or another!

Before I finish, I want to say a massive thank you to everyone in EIL for this opportunity. It just seems completely surreal at the moment. It was only last night when I pulled out a map that the full scale of the ordeal hit me. 6250 air-miles from home. Looks like I’ll be bringing my own Barry’s teabags!

Go gceann tamaillín eile ,
Laura