Indiana Area Senior High School

By ADRIANA GUTH-BOROWSKI – During the past summer, many IHS students went abroad to experience new and exciting cultures. Some went to enhance their language knowledge, while others just went for fun.

IHS students traveled to Spain to visit their exchange student from the past school year. Seniors Lydia Lewis, Katie Conrad, and Anthony Bevevino traveled to Malaga, Spain together. They each stayed with the exchange student from the past school trip. Being immersed in the Spanish culture and language, allowed them to enhance their Spanish skills.

“I enjoyed developing my Spanish skills and getting a chance to speak the language,” Bevevino stated. “It was good to be surrounded by the language.”

When traveling abroad, sometimes it can be difficult to adapt to foreign cultures and environments. “I was out of my element, but I felt more comfortable having my friends with me,” explained Conrad. “It was a surreal experience, and I loved every minute of it! It was so nice being with all new people and making memories I hope I never forget.”

Also, over the summer, Junior Maggie Conjelko went to Tajikistan to study Persian through the NSLI-Y program. During her time there, Conjelko was in a classroom during the week, and after her work, she participated in other activities. For seven weeks, Conjelko got to live in a completely different environment than she was used to. She had to adapt to another way of life, which was not always easy.

“I gained a lot of knowledge about the culture and language,” Conjelko said. “It could be difficult at times adapt to the environment. Although it wasn’t always easy, I learned a lot and grew as a person.”

Freshman Monica Turnbull traveled to Italy with her family. For two weeks, Turnbull was immersed in the Italian culture.  “At first it was a lot to take in,” she stated. “The culture is very different, and there was a language barrier. After the first week, it was easier to fit in.”

These students had a chance to take classroom learning and apply it to the real world. They each got to experience something new and expand their knowledge of different cultures.

 

[Photo by Adriana Guth-Borowski]

“Senior Anthony Bevevino reflects on his time in Spain.”

Adriana Guth-Borowski

Adriana is a sophomore and has been on the High Arrow staff for two years. Her goal is to bring accurate news and other stories to the readers of the High Arrow.