Maiken Olsnes, 17, loves America

West Valley junior Maiken Olsnes, 17, was inspired by her cousin to study abroad in the United States.

“I wanted to come to the US because my cousin did it and he went to Minnesota,” said Olsnes, who hails from Norway.

“I was also tired of everything at home and wanted something different.”

According to Olsnes, she received a phone call three days before she was supposed to leave from the study abroad agency.

“They told me I was going to Cottonwood. My friends think it is so hot here. I like it here. It’s different,” Olsnes said.

One of the things that surprised Olsnes by being in the States is learning more about her culture, like the Vikings.

Olsnes added that she originally came to the US wanting to better learn English, but said she has learned more about herself in the process. Olsnes is more independent, citing that she doesn’t have her parents around to help her.

Olsnes said she had the advantage of visiting the US before she arrived as a foreign exchange student.

“I went to New York and Miami. I knew when I came to America the first time I was going to be an exchange student,” said Olsnes, which she said helped her prepare for being here for a year on her own.

She said she loves America because everyone is so open and friendly.

Olsnes said she loves her host family and the new friends she has made and doesn’t miss anything about her home country.

However, when she leaves Olsnes said she will miss her friends and host family, the weather and the dog she has here.