Ivan's Opportunity: Study Abroad!!

Bonjour!

I am Ivan, a 15-year-old sophomore at Thomas County Central High School. I am very excited to have been selected for the Rotary Youth Exchange program to study in France next school year and immerse myself in a new society characterized by liberté, égalité, et fraternité, and let's not forget the exceptional culinary expertise!

I have been swimming with my school team and with the YMCA for several years. I am a member of Future Business Leaders of America and The Center for Civic Engagement, and I have a strong passion for geopolitical analysis, psychology, and stock market investing. My extended family is spread across Canada, the USA, and Mexico, and as a Mexican-American, I have embraced my bi-cultural identity.

While I am a student abroad, I want to learn about the culture and perspectives of the French people, and hopefully understand why our viewpoints differ. I would love to explore the government, cuisine, architecture, and way of life. As I bring this newfound knowledge back to the United States, I aim to incorporate these insights into more effective solutions for the challenges facing my community, country, and our world, all while embracing a broader global perspective.