The International IB school expat world – it’s a unique
slice of life. It’s like college all
over again. I moved to a new place. Lots of other people moved to a new place at
the same time – from all over the world.
We’re the freshman, the newcomers trying to figure it all out. We’re committed to be here for two years. Some will stay longer and some will decide
that it’s not the right place for them before their two years are up. There are those who have been here a while,
the upper classmen if you will. They
know the best places to eat, they know where to shop and how to get your
laundry done. Some of them have lost a
little of the spark – the excitement for the new adventure. It’s no longer a new
stage of life for them. But the freshmen
are constantly trying to make connections and build a community for
themselves. There are dinners together,
ultimate Frisbee games, weekend trips and holiday celebrations. All with the same vision – to connect with
others and make this new place home.
I’m a freshman by association, because I’m married to a
teacher. I’m in the same boat of trying
to build a community – a place of connection in a foreign land. It’s learning about new people and letting
them learn about me. It’s being open and
vulnerable. It’s what building
friendships is all about. It’s part of
the adventure.
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