JP (left), Julian (back row), Samuel and I.

What is it like studying abroad? If you were not Jamaican would you like it here? Three AFS members studying in Jamaica gave their impressions and experiences in their new home away from home.

It had been Sammuel Leira's desire to come to Jamaica because of his affinity for reggae music and beautiful girls. On hearing about Reggae Sunsplash, the beaches in Negril, the diverse culture and the girls, Sammuel, a Panamanian, knew he had to come.

Julian Koster, a 16 year-old six footer, from Germany had a choice between Jamaica and New Zealand. He never believed that he would be successful in getting into Jamaica, because he would have to compete with about one hundred students for the already limited space. He was relieved and happy when he was notified of his place in Jamaica. There are many things he has learnt since he came a few months ago.

"People have this perception that all there is to Jamaica is white sand beaches, rastas, weed and lying around and doing nothing. I never believed that in the first place, but it is good to come and see first hand what Jamaica is really like."

Jean-Paval Lemire (JP) from Canada, was enticed by pictures he received from the government. Now that he's here he admits that things are quite different. For example he received pictures mainly of the tourist area and was under the wrong impression that he would be attending school on the campus of the University of the West Indies'. Despite the misunderstanding, his most memorable experience so far, was seeing Jamaica when he landed.

Host Families

Sammuel lives in Spanish Town with a mother, father and younger brother.

Julian bunks with the Lawson family which consists of a mother, father, an older sister and an adorable younger brother, Brian.

JP resides with the Chang family who are very hospitable and extremely nice. One thing that he has not adjusted to is the fact that he has to study a lot and is only allowed to go out occasionally.

"In Quebec" he reminisced, "I am able to go out whenever I want. But here I am told that it is not safe."

The People

The three admitted that upon their arrival they were cynical about what to expect, but the warmth of their families and peers later changed that.

JP has been to the market and has learnt so much in a short time. He has already seen that the Jamaican poor will pay so much on their outfit and hairdo's while their children and themselves go hungry!

The Food

Julian was the most open towards this topic because he takes everything in stride as he gets it.

"I love the food here. Everything from callaloo, curry goat and ackee to cow cod soup!"

JP was the only one to differ. He is not used to the spicy food and wishes that Jamaicans would use more sugar.

"We eat a lot more sugar stuff in Quebec. Like we have 'Tire' -- this is when we heat the maple syrup, place it in the snow then take a branch and mash it around. The result is a cool, sticky sweet."

School

They are not happy with the uniforms, nor the rules, especially the one that says 'No smoking or drinking allowed'.

Assembly is new to them while the syllabus, especially those of additional Maths and Biology are challenging. But they enjoy the privilege of choosing their own subjects, the free sessions and sports.

Music and Events

Sammuel listens to artistes like Bob Marley, Tony Rebel, Beenie Man, Capleton, Red Rat, Red Dragon and Floragon.

JP and Julian spend their pastime scouting clubs, like Asylum, Peppers, Mingles and Jonkannu Lounge.

JP's view: "What I see is that Jamaicans spend more money on the sound system than what we do in Germany. We spend more money on building separate compartments and on the club itself."

Crime

They are aware of the high crime rate, but only JP has come face to face with it. Walking along the street one afternoon, he was approached by a man in rags. JP had something which the man demanded, but JP was just as determined not to hand it over. When the man brandished a knife, JP gave in. Has that caused a negative impact on JP? Not really, he says, it has just made him more aware.

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