Student from Turkey grateful for Iowans

I am a high school student from Turkey. I have spent the 2013-14 school year with two host families. I am on the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) scholarship program. I was placed in Iowa by Iowa Resource for International Service.

I lived in Shellsburg with my first host family. I went to Vinton-Shellsburg High School. I was a basketball cheerleader, involved in FFA and in a musical. After spending the first semester with my host family, I moved to Cedar Rapids and started going to Jefferson High School. I am involved in WISE Club (Women Inspiring Self Esteem) and choir.

I am thankful for my host families, the schools, Shellsburg and Cedar Rapids. My host families have treated me like I was part of the family. The schools welcomed me and gave me opportunities to get involved, and teachers were always helpful. This program helped me improve my English and helped my communication skills with different people. It also helped me with my future plans as an English teacher.

Sibel Ezgi Sen

Cedar Rapids