Kleiberth Romero
Is an 18-year-old software programming student currently living in Colombia. He’s originally from Venezuela.
Fiana Annisa
Is an English major student from Indonesia.
Although geographically divided, they have both been delighted with their recent experience of taking part in the International Virtual Exchange project initiated by Australia-based Eric Hagley. All the participants were non-native speakers eager to practice in an authentic setting.
“I’m not so good in English,’ smiles Kleiberth, ‘but I have a base and I really want to try.”
Fiana too, felt nervous to begin with, as it was her first time participating in a virtual exchange to practice her English language skills. She was encouraged when she realised all the participants had different accents due to coming from many different countries. And of course, all being non-native speakers was really helpful too!
Despite their initial nervousness and shyness, they can agree the experience was invaluable in building up their confidence, becoming curious about the world and understanding about other cultures.
For Kleiberth, participating in the virtual exchange was mandatory but, he says he loved it in the end.
“I was excited to meet people from all around the world and I wanted the chance to discuss interesting topics with them,’ he says.
Fiana says the different levels of English and all the different accents she heard during the exchange made her realise ‘we are all in the same position.’
“This was a great way for me to practice,’ she enthuses. “I made good friends with another Mexican girl and we talked and messaged everyday. She taught me so much about Mexican culture and food and traditions. The Mexican traditional clothes in a bright red colour that she showed me, were really lovely.”
Becoming curious
Kleiberth and Fiana discovered a new-found curiosity for Japan after Japanese participants shared beautiful images of their country online. Kleiberth just loved the snowy mountain peaks and lakes and Fiana was impressed by the flowers.
This virtual international intercultural experience has opened their minds and piqued their curiosity. They now would very much like to visit Japan after partaking in this virtual exchange.
Virtual exchange discussion topics
Kleiberth’s favourite topic to discuss with the others was gaming!
“We talked about the characters, and we discussed series and movies. I loved seeing the pictures of the places,” he smiles.
Other topics included culture, traditions, food and dress. Fiana explains how discussions began by asking a simple question about favourite food or hobbies. From there, the participants built up confidence to dig deeper and find out more.
Fiana and Klieberth say they were encouraged to talk a lot during the virtual exchange experience. The patience of their teachers, and the kindness of the other participants helped a lot.
“Just try it’, says Fiana. It’s been the best opportunity for me to practice my English which is so important for the future.”
Says Kleiberth, “It doesn’t matter if you don’t know much English. You can just try it and learn a lot and perhaps have some fun doing it!”