Orientation Day 2

Hei! Today was a long one, but it was definitely memorable. We got to do many things while exploring the city of Turku. We also got to go to the sauna this evening which was absolutely amazing. Here are some pictures:

The Group

The Beautiful Baltic Sea

Greetings from Turku!

Hi everyone! I'm finally in Finland and I don't think the realization has really kicked in because I am so exhausted. My flight to Washington Dulles was delayed for awhile so I had to wait it out and stay calm. We arrived at Dulles at 9:45 and from there I ran to my gate for the Frankfurt flight. As I was waiting in line, I met some more students who are going to be living in Finland. I was not alone anymore! Anyways, we were on a Boeing 777 so that meant we had our own personal TVs. I got to watch The Hunger Games and then I went to sleep with the help of some Nyquil. We arrived at Frankfurt on time and met with a YFU volunteer in Germany. While also going to the Lufthansa gate, I bought myself some Kinder and Coca-Cola Light. I had fun looking at all of the different candies and drinks. Anyways, we boarded the plane to Helsinki and were very grateful. We had only about 2 hours left of flying. And so, when we finally arrived in the Helsinki airport, we noticed that it was very, very quiet! I had read about it in a travel guide, but I didn't believe it until I experienced it myself. We also met with YFU Finland volunteers and received Finland packets for the orientation. Afterwards, we got on a bus for two hours to go to our hotel in Turku. It is very beautiful here. Everything is so GREEN! It is definitely a lot different than Texas. The temperature has also been quite a shock for me. When I walked outside for the first time, it was probably around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. We also got to experience our first meal in Finland which consisted of pasta and some yummy ice cream for dessert. Another thing that I am excited about is that I am rooming with an exchange student from Estonia. It was a little awkward at first because of the language barrier, but now I know I have to talk slowly and get to the point. Many people do not understand our slang. Also, apparently I have an American accent, which is exciting, because I never consider that I actually do have an accent. We have talked about both of our homes and I have also showed her pictures of Texas. She really enjoyed them a lot and complimented Texas saying, "It is beautiful!" Thank you, Ilona!! Well, I best be getting off to bed, it is midnight here in Finland and I have a big day ahead tomorrow. Good night!!

Finland at 11:45PM

Hei Suomi, Näkemiin Amerikassa

Well today's the day and I'm ready to go!! I'm really excited about leaving. I really can't believe that the day has finally arrived. I've gotten many calls from family members and shared my last Tex-Mex meal for awhile with my family. I leave from DFW and from there I go to Dulles. After I get to Dulles, I fly to Frankfurt and then finally to Helsinki. And so, with that being said, näkemiin!!

Introduction

Moi everyone! My name is Maura Vestal, I am 17 years old and I am from Texas. For 6 weeks this summer, I will be traveling to Finland to immerse myself in the Finnish culture and customs. I will be living in Kerava, right outside of Helsinki, with the Haapalainen’s, through the Youth For Understanding Program. I am so excited to be able to have this opportunity for I have been dreaming about going to Finland for a while. Many people have asked me “Why?” and I have a very special reason. Starting off my Freshman year of High School, we were assigned a project about a certain country in our Government and Economics class.  And so, over the following school year, I researched Finland and fell in love with the amazing country. Through my findings, I knew I wanted to travel there one day and being the determined person I am, I made it happen. I knew I could not learn everything from a computer: to truly learn about a country, you have to travel there and experience it for yourself. So while researching Finland for school, I also looked up programs in which I could travel there on my own. I used Google every time I could in order to find something (anything) that would allow me to go to Finland. And so, I finally stumbled upon the YFU program which would allow me to stay with a family for six weeks during the summer. I am truly thankful for my two Freshman history teachers, Mr. Arnold and Mr. Farda, for giving me the opportunity to learn about another country. I would not have discovered my interest in Finland if it were not for them.  Also, I want to thank my family for encouraging me to take this opportunity. Thank you Mom and Dad for introducing me to traveling and most importantly thank you Mom for convincing Dad to take us on your international adventures, it has truly changed my life for the better. Finally, thank you for taking your time to read my introduction today- I hope you continue to read my blog and learn a little bit about Finland! And if you have any questions or comments please feel free to put them on my blog and I will respond as soon as possible- kiitos!