I am doing my best to remain positive even when things are difficult. It seems like I am a different person here in Finland. Extremely positive and optimistic… on the outside anyway. Maybe it’s because I am in a situation where I have to make friends, or else I will be sad and alone. :) Well, in any case, I have been making a lot of friends. This experience of having to make new friends has taught me a lot about myself and about how important it is to A.) never judge anyone and B.) How it feels to be on the outside. First of all, not knowing the language of the country you are living in is kind of like not being included in this cool club that everyone else is in. AND I WANT IN. Second of all, I wouldn’t want people to judge me for anything except my actions and my personality. The idea that somebody would judge me because I’m an American (Fat and dumb) or I’m because I am a woman, or even because of the way I look scares me. In America I have always been around other Americans, who know that the stereotype isn't true. But as soon as you go to a different country, you get hit with it. I know, I should be talking. I’m an educated white girl. I still feel it though. Today, there was a guy giving a presentation in front of the class about Chile. When he asked if there were any questions, the room was silent. To break the ice, he looked right at me and said, “And no, I don't how many McDonalds there are in Chile.” Everyone laughed, but right away I was surprised and a little offended. I had been talking to this guy all term and that’s what he says? I don't even eat McDonalds! It was a joke, but it seems like people are blind to the real me. All they can see is my stereotypes. I have been guilty of stereotyping, but now that I have been on the receiving end of it, I will do my best to never do that to anyone again.