By Shannon McKenna
Round Table reporter
Josifine Mathiassen, better known to her friends as Josie, joined Middletown High School’s junior class this year as part of the foreign exchange program.
“I heard about the program from a friend who loved the experience, and America has always been fascinating to me,” said Mathiassen.
As part of the program, she went on a trip around the country before coming to stay in Middletown. With all the excitement buzzing around her, she has a lot to look forward to this year.
“I’m just so excited about being here; it’s all so new, going to football games, prom, and just hanging with new friends. I can already tell this is going to be a great year.”
On her first day at MHS, a few things stood out. Right off the bat, she noticed how different the school system was compared to back in Denmark.
“In Denmark we go to the same school for 10 years from kindergarten through 9th grade. After 9th grade you can choose if you want to go to a gymnasium or not (most people choose to go). Then you have to pick a gymnasium, kind of like picking a college in America, and you see if you get in. Then you attend your gymnasium for 3 years and from that you can choose if you want to go to a university or go look for a job.”
The clothing styles are also a bit different in America compared to her hometown.
“No one in Copenhagen wears tye-dye, but here in Middletown it’s so common. It’s like when you walk into the school every morning you can find at least one person wearing it.”
Although she loves it in Middletown, Mathiassen said it’s not the same without her family around her all the time.
“The first night was really hard. I saw Mrs. Gabb (her host mother) come in and give Alexis (her host sister) a kiss goodnight and it made me think of how my parents did the same with me.”
Even though she misses her family, Mathiassen is getting into many in school and out of school activities.
“Cross country is really fun, but it’s a lot of hard work. When I’m doing something I really enjoy, I work hard to make sure I try my best at it.”
Along with cross country, Mathiassen is working on the yearbook, taking dance classes at Betty Jane’s Studio of Dance, and possibly participating in the drama production this year.
For the duration of her visit, she will be staying with the Gabb family. Sophomore Matt Gabb said he was beyond excited to have her come and live with him.
Mathiassen said, “I was so glad they choose me, it’s so great to feel loved when everything is new and different.”
Although she’s only staying for 10 months, Mathiassen plans to make the most of her stay so this year will turn out truly fantastic.
