Goodbye Lorenzo

Three months have gone by far too quickly, and I’m due to leave in just a few days…

There are no words to express the feelings I’ve felt and the experiences I’ve been through.

From the beginning, I immediately felt so welcomed by everyone in the community, my wonderful host family, and the fantastic Baimbridge College. I just loved the school – the mood is incredible, and the teachers and school staff are always supportive. It’s very different from our school system. Here, teachers don’t see you only based on school performance and grades; they see you as a person and treat you in a friendly and respectful way.

I was so lucky to be given the chance to have experiences I never thought I’d live. As soon as I arrived at school, Mr Lynch and the other teachers got me involved in many activities. I was invited on the trip to Melbourne for the Careers Expo, I played footy for the school, I learned to play the sax (which I loved!) and performed in two concerts with my talented band. I was nominated for the Big Freeze and also completed the Push-Up Challenge.

When an Italian goes abroad, we always worry about the food… but I have to admit, I will miss my beloved Chicken Crimpy Shapes, Tim Tams, the Parma, and Anzac biscuits. On the other hand – and feel free to insult me for saying this – I still don’t like Vegemite.

What I loved the most was getting to know a completely different culture and lifestyle. Finally, I had the opportunity to live in the country, not in an oppressive, restless city. I immersed myself in nature, which is very wild up here. I surfed during a magical sunrise, dived into the Little Blue Lake, visited the Twelve Apostles, and explored many beautiful spots.

I really enjoyed how relaxed and laid-back people are here. I found fantastic friends who I truly hope to keep in touch with. We shared crazy memories that I hope they will never forget – because I definitely won’t. I really felt like an Aussie fella, and I will miss you all. I got so much from this experience, and from every one of you. I truly hope you got something back from me being here too.

I will never be able to thank you all enough, but here are some special shoutouts:

Mr Brown – You succeeded in making me enjoy and learn about the Russian Revolution.
Mr Hayes – You made me part of the best school band ever.
Mrs Barr – I loved experimenting with new recipes, and I’ll take them home.
Mr Macdonald – I really enjoyed the acting lessons on Shakespeare.
Mr Banfield – Now the “lousy” city of Catanzaro can count on a cool logo!
Mr Singh – Sorry again for nominating you for the Big Freeze.
And of course, Mr Lynch and Wendy – thank you for always being there for me.

You all made me feel like one of you. I will never forget you, and I will always keep Baimbridge in my heart.

See you – Vi voglio bene, Lorenzo