6/21/2007 - Learning the 'C'est la Vie' lifestyle in Illinois

by Seray Merve Keskin, Turkey 06-07; hosted by the Cherney Family in Kildeer, IL

Hi, this is Seray. I am from Turkey and I have been living with Bev and Jack Cherney in Kildeer, IL. My exchange year is almost over and I can’t believe how fast it has gone by. I have had the best experience I could by all means.

I had thought that I could improve my English and see new places and meet new people. But later, I have undestood that an exchange year is not about just language or new places. I have come from Istanbul, which is one of the most crowded cities. I have enjoyed the nature here, which I almost never can see in Istanbul. I had never thought that people from different cultures could be so different and so similar at the same time. But I have learned a phrase which is my favorite phrase now and has helped me so much: “It is what it is.” One cannot change anybody else’s thoughts but hers. Instead of trying to change what is happening, I can only change my actions towards it. Also, at some point one has to accept others as they are.

We have discussed everything with Mom and Dad here. I really like their perspectives on life and incidents that occur. Another important point I have learned is that one has to say what she or he thinks. Nobody is a mindreader and unless you say what you think you have to get lost among the others. Because by being silent you basically agree with others even if you actually do not.

There are thousands of things big or small but all important that have changed in my life. If I did not have the YES scholarship funded by the US Government, chances are I would not be here writing this. Now I know how many more things I can manage and I can reach once I want them. I would like to thank everybody, starting with Mom and Dad, who have opened their house and their hearts to me and who are a part of this program. I promise that I’ll do my best in every part of my life and this whole year and the energy that has been spent by others for me is not going to be wasted.

Thank you very much.