Ashton Liddle

 

 

1) What did you know about the United States, Georgia, or Columbus before you arrived here? Any surprises so far?

To be honest I didn't know an awful lot about the States before I came here. I did know however, that Georgia had very warm weather and so bought an entire new summer wardrobe - but my goodness that was a BIG understatement! The first three weeks I was here the temperature never fell below 90 (a big change fom back home when a very hot day is no more than 75). I was also told that everything in America was big and I have found this to be very true. Coming from a small town, Columbus seems huge and there are so many interesting things to see and people to meet. The food portions are also very big so I will honestly not be surprised if I head back home with the dreaded freshman fifteen - not that I'm complaining, the food here is awesome (with the exception of pecan pie!) The final thing I was told about was the 'Southern Hospitality' and I am glad to report that I completely agree with this. Everyone has been so lovely and has made me feel so welcome so thank you.

2) What motivated you to get into the Rotary Student program?

I actually heard about the GRSP scholarship from a neighbour who is a Rotarian. He remembered me from the previous year as I had asked the Rotary to sponsor my expedition to Romania. He therefore knew my desire to travel and see more of the world, so suggested I look into it. After some research, I realised what a great opportunity this program was (seeing a different part of the world and experiencing a different culture) and began my application straight away.

3) What are some of your career plans? How can the Columbus State University program help you in your plans?

My major back home is Psychology and English Literature and I one day hope to become an educational psychologist. This experience is really helping me in so many ways. For example the people skills I have to use every day when meeting new professors, new friends and new members at Rotary will be critical in this profession. Moreover the experience as a whole has allowed me to become more independent and more confident in myself which I believe is important in any career.

4) Do you have family members? Who are they and what do they do?

My dad, Andrew is a Master Production Scheduler for the American company W.L. Gore (I think this means he is the one who organises and controls all operations that take place within the plant). My mum, Gail is a sales administrator for a company called the Play Practice who specialize in the production and safety regulations of children's play parks. I also have two little sisters, Allwyn and Abby who are both at St. Kentigern's secondary school.

5) Can you tell us about your life in your home country? For instance, what things did you like to do there? What were your hobbies? Interests?

Back home my life was pretty normal. I enjoyed playing a lot of sports. I played soccer for the girl's team at school as well as playing net ball (although I don't think that is a sport over here) and also enjoyed swimming. Mountain climbing was a great hobby of mine. Every year my dad would take my younger sisters and I camping and each time we would climb a different mountain (Ben Nevis, Ben Lawers and Cairn Gorm to name a few). I was also a member of a small theatre group in my town - I can't say I was ever very good at singing or dancing but my gosh I loved to give it a try up there! Another one of my hobbies was playing the piano and I played from the age of 7 until I started university. Other interests were simply hanging out with friends, listening to music and reading.

6) Are there some things you think we should know about you which would let us get to know you quicker? Anything you particularly like to do or not do?

I'm not sure if there is anything else you all should know, I'm open to trying many new things. I would just like to take this opportunity to thank all of you again for making me feel so welcome and I cannot wait to get to know all of you a lot better.

Ashton.