Wei Hu, from China, just finished two-months volunteering at International Institute of New England (IINE) in Manchester, NH as part of CHI’s Short Term Enrichment Program. The Institute of New England’s leadership assists 2000 refugees and immigrants in becoming productive and engaged members of the greater Lowell, Boston, and Manchester, New Hampshire communities. Wei shares, My American Experience.
My American Experience: Independence Through Exchange
My experience in the US is really unforgettable. I have a good experience in homestay family I live and the organization I work. As for the volunteering experience, I learned a lot in IINE. Teachers and students in IINE are all very friendly. I felt lucky that the teachers trusted me well and gave me chances to teach so that I could get some teaching experience. And the students are always very friendly, I made friends with them. One student from Africa even sent me a gift to thank me which made me feel very touched. Not only did I teach them, but also I learned English with them together. I learned many new English words as well as teaching methods.
As for the homestay family, Florentina was very friendly and kind. She always helped me a lot and took me to some interesting places to have fun. The other two girls from China whom I lived with are nice too. I didn’t feel alone while I was here. What’s more, I became more independent since I can cook food by myself now.
During the two months, I also went to Boston and New York city with my friends. The travel experience was great!
All in all, I have a good impression on the U.S., including the environment and people. I’m sure that I will come to visit it again if I had chance.
