I still remember the day Aditi asked me for her allowing her to go to a German exchange with pleading eyes.
It was her dream from the day she took German as her third language. She knew it’s her 10th and mid term after the vacations will be really hard, and I could say a “no” but with a big heart I allowed her because I knew, no marks or academic achievement can ever give her this opportunity of going on a cultural programme, living with a totally different family and being a part of their daily routine.
In her childhood, my Aditi used to be very shy and introvert. The same Aditi asking to go on an exchange programme was a big thing, and needed a positive nod. Being a mom of three kids, i had to plan a vacation with the other two as well, so they destination Greece was finalised.
And there was no single day, no single moment, we didn’t miss her. Even when we posted our pics on Facebook, everyone asked about ‘Where is Aditi?’.
But whenever I called in Germany, and asked how is everything going, she was so chirpy, excited that I felt a relief in my heart that though she is not with us, she is happy and content.
Luckily she got an awesome family for an exchange. Her partner behaved like a best friend and her mom became Aditi’s mom doing everything. Erla’s mother did every household work for her like an Indian mother, ready to do everything for kids and pampering them.
I am so glad and thankful to the school for sending her in the exchange programme. Thanks for Richa Maam to take care of all the children. And special thanks to Radhika Maam and Megha Maam for encouraging her.
Thanks again.
-Ruchee Chotra
-Aditi’s Mom