By: Rachel

Rachel — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 16:23:06 +0000

I’m so glad you shared your story, Varda! I clearly remember you telling me the story because I was in your office on the day Borjan sent you an e-mail to catch up. I still so admire you for turning his experience into a positive one!

By: Varda

Varda — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 03:33:23 +0000

I have enjoyed getting to know numerous foreign-exchange students at the school where I teach. My first experience was in 1997 when I noticed a kid standing all by himself – day after day. I finally asked him who he was…and he told me “I’m just one more foreign kid who no one wants to talk to.” That was Borjan from Macedonia. At the time, we had just getting some students from other countries…and it was hard for them to find their place. Borjan, though, was an exchange student – but no one knew that. His family had saved their entire life for him to have this fabulous experience – which was a disaster. We got to know each other very well…and I discovered that he was placed with a family who thought they were getting a free babysitter. He was never allowed to go to any school functions – NEVER! He wasn’t allowed to watch tv and he was made to spend 8 hours at church on Sundays which he didn’t want to do. I took him under my wing – overstepped my bounds BIG TIME – called the agency and found him a NEW HOME! The agency wanted to move him to a farm in Florida but Borjan wanted to stay at NSCHS in Atlanta. I found the most popular cheerleader who wanted him to move into her home! Luckily her parents agreed. So…he went from having NO friends and doing NOTHING extracurricular – to going to every sporting event, tons of parties, getting involved with school…and having a great experience. I am still in touch with him today! I literally felt like I saved a life!

Comments on: Glee Welcomes an Exchange Student from Ireland!

By: Rachel

By: Varda