Corey Yeung (2013-2014 Outbound to Japan)
Mr. Overly,
It would be my absolute pleasure to talk about my life-changing exchange. An exchange is very far from being a vacation. The experiences’ someone has on an exchange when compared to a vacation is on completely different sides of the spectrum. A vacation is the time to lay back, relax, and have a good time. No effort is put forward besides planning the trip. An exchange is an experience of a lifetime, something far greater than what can be received by a mere vacation. This was a transformational experience for me because I’ve not only experienced a completely different language and culture from my own, but also faced emotions that only an exchange could have opened me up to. I was constantly challenged to not just tolerate someone's differences, but accept and respect them. I was repeatedly beaten down by the obstacles I faced, but it developed something I will always be grateful for. I stood back up with a new character and confidence. The personal growth I had on my exchange was invaluable and has widened my perspective to a more global level. That is why this exchange is a lifelong journey, not just one year. One exchange student went back to Taiwan after her exchange and entered college, another went back right after her exchange to Germany to teach, and I too, hope to return to Japan one day in a more professional, business-oriented way. What I took from the lessons I learned on the exchange will continue to grow now as I face new challenges, regarding my academics and goals.
I am currently attending the University of South Florida, St. Petersburg, and majoring in Business. I am actively looking for different ways to be involved at the university and I may have not approached as so if I had not been involved in an exchange. On the exchange, I had to get involved as possible with my host families, school, and host Rotary club. Whatever the case may have been, I got involved and it ultimately led me to be a part of the Japanese language and culture. That is one such example that I have learned and incorporate into my university life; getting as involved as possible, reflects how much challenges and learning experiences there are. Regarding my career plan, I hope to be involved with the hospitality industry and have global relations with that occupation, whether it be with Japan or another country. Without a doubt, the first program I would recommend any club to undertake is the Rotary Youth Exchange Program. If there are any concerns that a Rotary club may have, I please ask them to reconsider the many benefits this exchange gives. It provides unbelievable experiences for ambitious young adults to push past the ordinary boundaries. The opportunities Rotary has opened up to me are incredible and I highly advocate the program’s values and goals.
Best regards,
Corey Yeung