ELC BLOG

Marine is 19 years old and from Lasne, Belgium. She has been with ELC Santa Barbara since September, and we can’t believe her time here is almost complete! One can usually find her crushing it at the gym, spending time with friends shopping or at the beach, and dreaming about pasta. Come March, we will be so sad to say goodbye to our dear friend, Marine. Read on below to learn more about Marine!

Is this your first time in the US?

Yes, it is my first time in the US. That is why it was a real dream for me to come to America, and I am so happy to finally be here! I got to travel to a lot of different places in the US during my studies.

What were you surprised to learn about the US or Santa Barbara? Did you experience culture shock?

I did not really experience culture shock. People in Santa Barbara do a lot of things like the people in Belgium, so I was not really shocked. I think I was more shocked about all of the different types of people in Santa Barbara. There are so many kinds of styles and you can do and wear whatever you want. No one will judge you (LOL). It was also interesting to see all of the different types of host sisters I have had!

What do you miss about your country?

I miss the food! I mean, there is really nice food here in Santa Barbara, but they can’t cook spaghetti bolognaise. Come on! I’m Belgian!! I miss the bread. I’ve never found a nice bakery. You really should toast your bread…

What do you do for fun?

I love going to the beach (when the weather permits, obviously). I used to go in the summer with the old ELC team. But I go to the gym very often and shopping. Even though, after one week you know all of the shops. And I really loved my time with my two Brazilian sisters, Nina and Elena.

What are your hobbies?

HAHAHA, eating! I love food! I really enjoy choosing my restaurant for lunch every day. And going to the gym. When it’s rainy, it’s nice to exercise.

Do you have any tips for people who want to learn English?

If you want to learn English, you should try to be friends with people from a different country than yours. I know, it’s hard to speak when you really don’t know know, but don’t be shy, it’s the key. You don’t need to care about the opinion, people won’t judge you.

What is your favorite place in Santa Barbara?

You know in Paseo Nuevo, there is a place up the stairs. Nearby to Panda Express. When the weather is good, we can hang out there. I used to go often in the summer with Noemi and Chihiro. And school! Teachers are my family. I’m feeling so good.

What are your favorite moments in class at ELC?

My favorite moment was with Elaine’s class, we saw an episode of “Friend’s”. We had each part of the episode to be represented. We were like the actors, it was really funny. I won’t forget it. I won’t forget Nina always sitting next to me in the class.

What are your plans after ELC?

First, I am going to the mountains to go skiing with my friends. 🙂 After that, I should find a job! In September, I’m going to University. I want to be a midwife. It’s 4 years to study. And I have to plan my trip to Switzerland and Brazil, I need to see everybody that I met here at ELC!