From Lovere-Boario (BG), Italy to the Kempen region (Flemish Belgium) for a year with Intercultura and the support of Fondazione Pesenti.
FIRST TRIMESTER: SEPTEMBER – NOVEMBER 2021
Relationship with my host family: My host family consists of a mom, a dad, and a younger brother. From the very first moment, I felt welcomed and never out of place. Leslie and Alwin, my host parents, are very different: she is precise and hates wasting time, while he is the opposite. They had already hosted many other students before me, and this made me nervous—I feared I might just be one of many who had lived there. Instead, from the beginning, I developed a unique relationship with them. The small gestures they do for me always make me smile and feel at home.
My brother Ast is twelve years old and attends the same school as I do. Every morning we take the bus together and complain about the Belgian cold and rain. He’s a very intelligent but also emotional boy. Being an older sister is a big change for me—back in Italy I’m the youngest in my family. When I’m with him, I always try to set a good example, as if I feel the responsibility. I love spending time with my new family, and I know I always have someone willing to help me.
Interaction with my host community and friends I’m an outgoing and very friendly girl. These qualities have helped me a lot, but I’ve also found open and curious people who welcomed me. Having hobbies allowed me to meet new people, but my classmates remain some of my best friends in Belgium.
I live in the Kempen region. My local AFS chapter is not as big as others, but we’re incredibly close—students and volunteers alike. The volunteers always try to organize fun activities, as well as opportunities for reflection and discussion on this amazing experience. After my Italian and Belgian families, my local AFS chapter feels like a third family
My academic experience: school performance and relationships Making friends at school was easy, also because I ended up in a class that welcomed me right away. I’ve built a beautiful relationship with my classmates, who I can now call my friends. I’ve never felt alone at school, unlike some other students doing the same exchange. In class, they always try to help me and teach me something new in Dutch. Without them, my experience would be completely different.
My teachers are very supportive and attentive. They’re interested in my culture and always encourage me to do my best. With the delivery of the first term report card, I had the opportunity to speak privately with my class coordinator. She congratulated me on behalf of all my teachers for the academic results I’ve achieved in just two months and for my commitment to learning the language.
My school is small, which helped me get to know people outside of my class and make more friends. After talking to other exchange students, I realized how lucky I am to be in such a welcoming environment where I can grow peacefully. My free time Most of my free time is on the weekends. Since I’ve been here, I’ve spent much of that time traveling. Moving around this country is very easy due to its size. I’ve often traveled with other exchange students, and it’s always a great experience. In addition to discovering new places, we can talk and share our exchange experiences.
In Belgium, most teenagers are part of a youth association, so I decided to become a scout. We meet every Sunday, and our activities usually consist of games or crafts. Joining these groups is a great way to make friends and learn the language.
Things that particularly struck me in this country
I’m learning a lot from the Belgian work ethic. Generally, the workweek runs from Monday to Friday. During these five days, Belgians work with great focus and dedication. But during the weekend, they completely switch off and devote time to themselves.
I really appreciate the Belgian lifestyle—it’s balanced and calm. I’m especially impressed by the care for the landscape and nature: here, you’re always surrounded by greenery, and it’s deeply valued. There’s also a strong commitment to producing clean energy, something that doesn’t happen as much in Italy.
Three words that describe my experience so far “Geen probleem” – It’s not a single word, but a Dutch expression. It was one of the first phrases I learned, and it has stuck with me. It means “no problem,” and I often repeat it to myself as a reminder not to stress over small things—every problem has a solution.
Discovery – Of this country, its culture, its people, but most of all, of myself.
People – Without the people I’ve met so far, my experience would be completely different. I can’t imagine this year without my family, classmates, and friends.
Anecdotes / Open Comment I grow and learn something new about myself every single day. Every evening, when I return home, I feel a sense of peace and happiness that I never experienced in Italy. I am extremely grateful for the experience I’m living.
Photo
Some of the places I’ve already visited.
