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Jasmine
COUNTRY
Canada
Current School
High School
How did you feel when you learned you’d be moving to the Hampton Roads area in the US?
I am excited to live in the USA since it is much different from Belgium, where I moved from.
Was the educational system in the US different from your home country’s? If so, do you prefer it or not, and why?
It is different. I used the British system, and the grade is very different compared to the American system.
Did you keep in touch with your friends and relatives from where you previously lived? If yes, what method worked best, and/or how often are you able to contact them?
Test and other social media apps helped keep contact.
Are you in touch with any other NATO officer kids? Tell us a few things about that experience.
I am. I meet other Nato kids from school or in sports and it’s just another thing you have in common and a conversation starter.
What do you usually do for fun after moving here? Do you have any suggestions for activities we could try?
Definitely the beaches. I personally love just walking around the Lynnhaven mall, or down by the shops at oceanfront, usually stsrtinf at 17th street.
Have you been on any trips within the US or to the surrounding countries? If yes, tell us a few things about the experience and make some suggestions on what the rest of us could try.
I’ve been to a few other states, including New Orleans and Philadelphia. Searching for popular attractions is the best way my family and I find things to do, but walking around the “downtown” area of wherever you are is a fun and easy way to come across something new.
Are you involved in any extracurricular activities either in your school or in outside organizations? Tell us about your experience.
I’ve played for my school’s soccer team since I played soccer in Canada and Belgium. I, then joined CVCR rowing club which has been such a fun and very new experience.
How did the language barrier (if applicable) affect your experience? Do you have any tips for future newcomers struggling with learning English?
The language barrier didn’t apply to me.
What are a few difficulties you faced when moving to the US that you haven’t already mentioned?
No not really since I am Canada so there’s not much different compare to a normal Canadian and an American but coming from Belgium, I’d say how school and how they manage and work is a bit different.
What do you wish you had already known before moving to the US?
I’d say it depends on where you live, but I found out that there’s not much public transportation, unlike where I used to live. I was used to trams and metros and many busses.