Maria Malik, Class XI
Maria Malik was selected by AFS for a Short-Term Reciprocal Programme to Germany. She was hosted by a German family and also attended school there. She shares her experience below:
The AFS reciprocal program was by far my best ex perience. It was beyond anything I had expected it to be. I have not only learn’t how to be independent but also how to interact with new people and establish a bond that would be lifelong.The host family was truly amazing – so loving, caring and so much fun! On my part all I had to do was engage in the conversations and spend time with the family members. This was an easy step that brought us closer each day. I just had to push away all the shyness I had in me and breathe in the new space I was in.
We were in Austria for hiking thrice in two months and it was a stupefying experience. We went for biking, celebrations, dinners, carnivals … the list is endless.
Everyday was a new experience wherein I learnt something worth recalling time and again. I have built a strong connection with the city and the house I lived in, but what’s even stronger is the association with my host family, my friends and the wonderful memories that I will cherish all my life. And not to forget the dearest dog, Aika! These six weeks have truly been the most amazing weeks of my life and I will cherish this experience forever.
