Rotary's Youth Exchange

James LaSala visited the Montville Rotary Club on April 20th to talk about ESSEX, the Eastern States Student Exchange. He was accompanied by Luiza, an exchange student from Brazil.

Rotary has both long-term and short-term exchange programs. The former is for the full academic year while the latter is usually during summer vacation. Students for either exchange are selected by a sponsoring Rotary Club on the basis of a written application and personal interview.

Students must be between 15 and 18 1/2 years old at the time of departure, display average or above academic achievement, be outgoing and adventuresome, as well as flexible and open to living in a different culture. Youth Exchange is open to the children of Rotarians as well as those of non-Rotarians.

Luiza confirmed that she is having the best year of her life and she wishes to let everyone know that this is a once in a lifetime experience.