Most WS students at Spartan Spree were given a glimpse about what their year would be like, but junior Shushu Dirie, had her sights set on one place: Italy.
This past summer, Dirie joined the American Field Service program (AFS) which will allow her to live and study next semester abroad in Italy. It was an idea that just came to her one summer morning and she decided this was the path in her life that she wants to pursue.
“The AFS program seemed friendlier than the rest. It looked like they were focusing more on the experience than just school stuff,” said Dirie.
These study abroad programs offer many different types of studies all over the world.  The AFS program in particular grants options that allow students to satisfy their needs in terms of religion and culture.
“The list of foreign countries had a lot of options like South America. I did not want to go there though because they are heavy meat eaters there and when I narrowed the list down, I chose Italy because it seemed like the friendliest country for me,” said Dirie.
Dirie has visited the country before, but she recently decided it is time to return to revisit the culture that captivated her. The rich history, art and architecture are all part of the formula that makes Italy so appealing to Dirie. Although she is optimistic about her upcoming experience in Italy, there is one aspect of the country that she is most enthusiastic about: The food.
“I am most excited about the food because the first time I was in Italy I felt like I didn’t get enough, so now this time around I can indulge. I’m also really excited to meet my host family” said Dirie.
Dirie’s experience will be one that is a one-of-a-kind in comparison with life at WS, but even though she will be continuing her high school career on another continent, she emphasizes that there will still be a sense of normalcy to her education.
“I will still be attending a public high school and I will pretty much be doing everything that I already do here. I might have to go back a level in math and science though,” said Dirie, “One of my main focuses will be learning the language.”
Dirie hopes to continue working hard in her studies despite the fact that she will be thousands of miles away from home. This part of her education will help her stand out among the masses when she eventually begins applying to colleges.
“I think I have a better standing than other people because it is such a unique experience,” said Dirie.