By: Emily Krupicka
Amidst the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, students are being asked to limit travel and stay away from others; however, the foreign exchange students attending Northwest High School have been asked to return to their home countries, cutting their stay in Grand Island short.
Gera Baltasar, a junior, arrived in the United States at the beginning of August. While stepping foot into a new country, she was hopeful about her stay in Nebraska, and, after returning home, she relished in her memories of her time in the Midwest.
“I truly enjoyed my time in America. My favorite memory was going to watch the show choir in Omaha at one of their competitions.”
Baltasar, as well as the other exchange students, made many lifelong memories here, but she was hoping to make even more in the coming months.
The students were scheduled to return back to their home countries a week after the school year ended. However, due to the coronavirus outbreak, the exchange agency requested them to return home earlier than expected. Even though the ubiquity of the outbreak has been proven perilous, the abrupt ending to their American studies was still unexpected.
“More than disappointed, I was sad and frustrated about not getting to spend more time with my friends in Grand Island, but I understood what a difficult decision the exchange agency had to make,” Baltasar said,
When she was sent back to her home country of Spain, which, at the time, was a global hotspot for the outbreak, many were saddened by her leave. Many were also worried for her overall well-being.
“I wish that I could explain to her how much her being my best friend changed my life. I hope she’s doing okay there,” said Sophomore Danyka Galvan.
In a video commemorating their time spent together, Galvan recalled the fond memories she and her friend had made during her stay.
Baltasar’s impact made a profound impact on the lives of many in Nebraska. As she battles with the abnormality of transitioning to life back in Spain, she leaves behind a promise of return.
“I will visit the U.S. again, and I can’t wait to go back and see everyone.”
*Photo Courtesy of Gera Baltasar
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