Before I came to United States, I was afraid. I was afraid of my Rotary sponsors, my host families, my college, and my new life. Afraid because I didn't know if I would like them and they would like me. I didn't know if I would stay all by myself at the college and how that would be. I was concerned about how I would interact with Rotarians and fit in at their meetings. I started to have dreams about the USA weeks before my departure. But I never considered going back on my decision. I was happy to come; even though afraid, I wanted it.

Then I arrived here. I had three families. My first encounter with my main host family was great. Joel and Darlene Terry are more than great. I love each minute I stay with them. Jolene was my second family to meet, and I love her and her kids, Jolee and Juliann. Jolene treats me as her own daughter and I feel so loved because of that; Jolee is so sweet and Juliann reminds me of my own sister. I felt home again. My third family was Rich and Betina Marr, and with them I had two more siblings: Mackenzie and Schuyler. And I can't forget my favorite American pet: Olivia Marr, our dog! Since I arrived here, Rich and Betina took care of me as their own daughter; Mackenzie brought me on my first visit to the aquarium, where I cried a lot when I saw dolphins for the first time in my life - REAL DOLPHINS!

Each of my families has an important meaning for me that I never will forget. Joel and Darlene are my home sweet home; every time I don't feel good or " I want to go home," I think about them and their house. Jolene is my Brazilian mom in the form of my American mom. Rich and Betina are the best couple ever; and I must say to them thank you again for our travel to California at the end of 2017, during Christmas time; it will be in my memory forever. Each family has a piece of my heart.

My Rotary sponsors are great; I feel welcome every time I go to my Rotary meetings. My college is huge and I love it because it has everything. Kennesaw State is the best college I have ever been to - GO OWLS! They have all kind of food, computers, the best classes and dorms.

During my year, I learned about American culture and how blessed I am to be here. I started a new Rotaract Club at my College, Kennesaw State; and I am very proud of our initial group. I also went to visit New York and more of this wonderful country.

I have felt so welcomed here in the USA that I have not missed my country, nor my real parents. The GRSP program is responsible for helping me grow as an adult, for opening my mind to new experiences, and for helping me learn a little bit more about other countries through our get togethers on GRSP weekends. I am thankful for all the Rotarians and my host families for this wonderful opportunity. I sincerely thank you for all I have experienced - and still there is more to come before the end of this year.