Orientation Camp

This Whitsun we had our orientation Camp somewhere in the middle of nowhere. We all came by train alone and met the others at the hostel. I was pretty relieved meeting most of the students in the train already. IDK how we actually recognized each other, I guess we all must have been somehow exotic and ‘exchange-studentish’ looking.

We were 23 (I guess) and the camp leaders themselves were exchange students 2 to 4 years ago (Thailand, Indonesia and Southafrica and China).

We called our group ‘Die Exoten’ (Exotic People) beacause we are the part of AFS Switzerland, who is going to spend a year in really exotic destinations (mainly Asia). Most of us are going to Japan, but also to Malaysia, India, Thailand, Indonesia, South Africa, Hong Kong and China.

The camp was without time or any electronical devices, therefor we had to hand in our cells, cameras and watches. I would have neeeever ever believed that I’d like to be without them, but it was great. Everyone was really outgoing and open minded and we all got to know each other fast.

Basically we spent the 2 Days playing some games, laughing, talking,(jogging at mignight) and reconstructing situations that might happen in the host country. It was great to talk with  Miranda (the leader who spent her year in China) about her experiences.

She could tell us a lot about her year and take our anxiety a little. But still I’m getting more and more excited day by day (72 days to go).
I had a great time, thank you all! ♡

Die Exoten