William Charlton has dreamt of visiting a European country and in eight weeks, it will become a reality when he jets off to a year of study abroad in Belgium.
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The 16-year-old will study year 11 at Vise, a town bordering the Netherlands which speaks French, as part of Rotary's Youth Exchange.
William said Belgium seemed like a beautiful place and he was excited about the life-changing experience.\
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"I wanted to step out of my comfort zone and experience a new culture," he said.
"I also want to grow as an individual and meet new people, whilst learning more about myself and the world.
"Without [Rotary] I really wouldn't be able to go on this opportunity, it's an absolute honour to have the chance to embark on this journey."
He will stay with three different families during his exchange, be an ambassador for Launceston, detail his experience in a blog and travel over the year.
The year 10 St Patrick's College student is one of nine Tasmanian students jetting to different countries in January.
Launceston Rotary Club's Diane fowler youth director said the program was life-changing and a great learning experience.
"A lot of them have never been away from home on their own before and at 16 it can be very challenging, particularly as Will is when you have to learn a new language," she said.
He has sold Christmas lights to fundraise for his trip and is hoping to sell 250 more boxes on Saturday and Sunday at 17a Wentworth Street from 8am to 2pm.
We're raising funds for four Tasmanian charities as part of our Empty Stocking Appeal. Can you help?
