The Andreason's

Hi, I'm Mariam, a FLEX exchange student from Georgia.

I had two flights from my country to the USA. The first and the last flights were the most emotional for me. When I was leaving Georgia I was so happy, just excited, I couldn't wait for my flight. I was standing among other exchange students proud of myself and full of desire to have a great experience far away from my country.

When I had a flight from San Francisco, CA to Eugene, OR, I was excited and little bit nervous because I was totally depending on myself. I remember how I got out from the plane with Ukrainian exchange student; we walked downstairs, wishing good luck to each other. My host family was waiting for me; they were holding the poster with a note "Welcome Mariam.”

I think they're the best host family ever! On a first day they took me to baseball game, I was impressed! They’re warm and easy-going. I like how my dad whistles when he arrives from the work - he has very good personality, he is supportive, likes joking and makes me feel comfortable at home. Mom is is open and sociable, I like talking with her, and she understands people easily and makes them smile. She cooks Georgian food and it's very yummy!

I'm oldest child of my parents and I always wanted to know what it means to have an older siblings. Here I have 2 host brothers, (17 and 9 years old) and a sister. I’m so lucky that I have an older brother, we go to same school, he is very helpful and friendly, and he makes me laugh. My little brother is so cute and funny. I like his smile. I also meet my sister often, she is very nice!

Day by day my family makes my "American Experience" more amazing and full of excitement! We share really wonderful time together. Time flies so fast; I know that soon I'll wake up in Georgia, so I'm trying to spend the most memorable time with the most awesome family!