07 Track 7

Unit 3

Studying abroad

Chapter 2

My Travel Journal

page 37

My Travel Journal

September 13

Hi journal! It’s me, Maria. I arrived in New York City two weeks ago. I am writing this journal for one of my classes. My teacher says it is a good way for me to practice writing in English and to write about my experiences here in the United States.

So far, I like New York and my school. I have three classes a day. Most of my classmates come from Japan, Korea, Poland, Germany and Brazil.

There many Italian students, so I have to use English most of the time. I am learning a lot! I am living in student housing, and I have my own comfortable room.

October 20

My English is hopeless! I was on the bus this morning and a man spoke to me, but I hardly understood him. I was so embarrassed. Why is my English improving so slowly?

I want to make lots of American friends, but this isn’t happening so easily. I feel shy, and it is hard for me to talk to people, even my classmates! I like them, but sometimes I can’t understand them very well. I’m feeling homesick. I miss my friends and family.

October 27

I went to a school party last Friday and it was awesome. I talked with a Japanese man named Kenji and a Polish woman named Anna. We talked about our countries’ customs and our experiences in the State so far. We are going to walk around the city together this weekend.

Also, Kenji wants me to write for the student newspaper here at school. Maybe things are getting better!