Ever since I was a child, I was filled with curiosity and wonder. I would always ask my mom a million different questions. This curiosity is probably why I love learning languages so much. Learning a new language allows you to consider a different perspective and maybe even meet new people you might not have talked to otherwise.
I started learning English when I was about ten years old. It was so exciting to finally understand the lyrics to my favorite pop songs! I did not realize the full benefits of speaking a second language until I was sixteen. I knew I wanted to study abroad to broaden my horizons, however, most programs were too expensive for my family to cover. Then, I found United World College (UWC for short). UWC is a group of international high schools that give scholarships to students from all around the world to live, learn and grow together. I got accepted into UWC Maastricht in the Netherlands (a small country in Europe). At first, I struggled speaking English all the time and missed my loved ones so much. Eventually, I met incredible friends that I consider family, went to my first protest and visited six other European countries!
UWC was a life-changing experience for me. It helped me mature and discover my passions.