EF Stories: Sofia from Italy at EF Eastbourne

Sofia, an EF Ambassador since 2022, embarked on a journey to Eastbourne over the summer. Here's her firsthand account:

What was your experience like in Eastbourne?

It all began last winter when I had the audacious idea of going on a language course with EF. So, in early June, right after school ended, I set off to live in Eastbourne, England, for three months. I opted for a general individual course because I believed I was mature enough to start learning to be independent. Despite being 17 years old, my parents wholeheartedly supported me, and that's how I found myself in England a few months later. EF guided me right from the start, patiently addressing our numerous questions and keeping us informed about any requests. I had an incredibly positive experience and would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone.

What are the three things you loved most about the city you've been to?

One aspect I appreciate about Eastbourne is that, despite its size as a city, it maintains a tranquil atmosphere. It's not quiet in a dull sense, as I always found something to do during my three-month stay, but it offers a comfortable and peaceful way of life. The fact that it has direct access to the sea was particularly special for me, as I come from Italy and being able to wake up each day to that view was truly amazing.

Another feature I enjoyed is the city's central location, which made it convenient to explore other nearby cities. Thanks to efficient train and bus services, I had the opportunity to discover many wonderful places in the vicinity.

Additionally, the proximity of EF Eastbourne School to both the train station and the city center (just 5 minutes away) and the sea (only 10 minutes away) made it convenient for me to spend time with my friends before or after classes while staying close to the school.

What activities did you participate in with other students?

EF offers a wide range of activities through its online portal, both paid and free, and my friends and I took part in several of them. I attended the "pool party" at the city pool twice, which was a free event featuring an evening of music and fun. The pool had artificial waves (something I had never experienced before) and a hot tub. It was one of the highlights of my experience because I had the chance to meet new people and have a great time with my friends.

Another memorable activity, which cost £10, was the "Hawaiian party." This event, open to students over 16, took place in a café near the school and had a Hawaiian theme. We were treated to food and non-alcoholic beverages, and enjoyed a variety of international music.

I also had a fantastic time at the "interstate party." After class, anyone interested could bring food from their home state to share in the activity room, resulting in a delightful feast.

There were many more activities I participated in, including trips to Cambridge, Oxford, Bristol, and many other places. However, it would take me quite some time to describe them all in detail.

Could you describe the most exhilarating moment you encountered during your time abroad?

There were numerous intense moments throughout my experience abroad, moments that I cherish deeply and wish I could relive endlessly. One, in particular, remains indelibly etched in my memory. It was one of my initial Fridays in Eastbourne, and I found myself on the beach in the evening with some of my girlfriends, bidding farewell to one of our friends who was leaving the next day.

That day was a celebration, a day when I felt an unparalleled connection with my friends. It was a moment of profound unity, where despite our diverse origins from various states and continents, we all shared a mixture of happiness and sadness. We all longed for our families and friends back home, yet we were there together in that moment.

Never before had I felt such a deep connection with my friends, and for that reason, it will forever hold a special place in my heart.

How has this experience changed you?

Upon returning from this journey, I discovered that I had undergone a significant transformation. The individuals I encountered during my trip completely reshaped my perspective, enlightening me about various aspects of life and sharing their unique viewpoints.

Establishing friendships with international peers might initially prove challenging, as expressing one's character through a second language is not always easy. However, it is precisely these challenges that made my experience truly remarkable and contributed significantly to my personal growth.

What advice would you offer to those who are contemplating embarking on a journey with EF or are feeling uncertain about it?

My advice remains constant and simple: "live life to the fullest." Engaging in programs like these offers exceptional opportunities for self-improvement and language enhancement, but it is also a gateway to adventures and the formation of incredible friendships. As with anything new, it may seem a bit daunting at the beginning, but that's part of the journey.

Throughout this experience, you will acquire valuable skills, not only in the realm of language but also in social and professional aspects. You'll learn self-reliance, money management, and the importance of not always relying on your parents. You'll also develop the ability to relate to people who come from diverse backgrounds and cultures. It's an eye-opening experience.

EF is fantastic, so my sole advice is to embrace it wholeheartedly and savor every moment of your journey, for it is a one-of-a-kind experience. Live without fear, don't overthink, because this is your moment, and it won't come again.

Do you believe that you have gained skills that will prove valuable in your future career?

Absolutely, I acquired a range of valuable skills during this experience. I initially started as a very shy and reserved person who was hesitant to even order pizzas or interact with sales clerks. However, this journey helped me overcome my fear of speaking in front of others, a fundamental skill for any future job. I learned how to express my opinions confidently and support them, which is crucial in a professional context. Additionally, I received guidance on conducting interviews, a skill that will be beneficial for future job interviews.

This experience also taught me how to navigate interactions with individuals from different cultures and work effectively within a team, with respect as the foundational principle. I consider all these skills to be assets that I will undoubtedly carry forward into my future career.

What's your next EF destination?

As for my next EF destination, having experienced English weather, which, I must say, was quite pleasant during my stay, I am now drawn to something a bit more "exotic." I would love to explore places like EF Santa Barbara or EF Honolulu.