Erin Archibald is bound for Germany thanks to the support of Guyra Rotary Club. Erin departs on Saturday to begin what promises to be an exciting year as a Rotary Exchange Student in Oberhausen living with local families and attending school at Bertha-von-Suther Gymnasium.

Rotary Youth Exchange Programs are organised by individual Rotary Clubs and Districts throughout the world. Each year thousands of young people take the opportunity to experience the cultures and accomplishments of people in other countries. The ambassadorial nature of the exchange promotes world understanding and peace.

The Rotary Program is recognised as the best exchange program by schools, parents and the students themselves, because of its sound infrastructure and the world wide support network.

Erin joins eight other students from Rotary District 9650 who head out this week for a year of fun and learning

Guyra Rotary President Liz St Clair said that it had been a privilege to sponsor Erin. “She is a wonderful ambassador, not only for Guyra but for Australia as well. I am sure she will have a wonderful time.”

Erin hopes to become fluent in German during her stay. “I’m really excited about going and looking forward to riding my bike to school in the snow” she said.

Having just completed her HSC at Guyra Central School Erin plans to make the most of her year, which includes a European tour during summer, before retuning next year to study Arts/Law at the University of New England.

Later in the year a group study exchange from Rotary District 9650 will also be going to Germany. This program is aimed at 25-40 year olds learning about their vocations.

In July Guyra Rotary will welcome an inbound exchange student who will live in Guyra for 12 months and attend school, just as Erin will do in Germany.