It’s Keya and Sophie writing about our second day at GPS school. This morning most of us woke up early since we’re all still jet lagged but the first day jitters were gone. Everyone was so welcoming and warm so we found ourselves excited to go back to school and spend another day with the students. We had our classic breakfast of toast, nutella, fruits, and eggs to get ready for our 8:20 departure. 

One thing we all love about the school is how friendly everyone is. Walking down the halls, everyone smiles, waves, and asks for our names. Sometimes they even ask what our parents’ names are! The warmth of the school really helped us feel comfortable and happy to be back in the halls for the second day. 

Other highlights from today were the delicious lunch, the way we could never walk anywhere without students asking to hold our hands, the many games, and reading together. One of the students’ favorite games to introduce to us was ‘Monkey.’ Monkey is a game where they hang a lanyard in their waistband, and the goal of the game is to snatch the lanyards of other kids, while keeping yours safe. It reminded us of flag football! Another one of the students’ favorite activities was reading. Most of us read to our class sometime over the past 2 days and we found they all listened attentively and were very involved with the story. It was a nice way to connect with the entire class at once. 

Tomorrow after school we have a talent show followed by a campfire. First, the GPS students in grade 6-9 will show off their talents, then we’re going to show off our own talents at a Canadian summer-camp-style campfire. We are even going to roast marshmallows with them. Right now our campfire plan includes repeat-after-me songs, a dance, a push up contest, and a magic trick! We’re really excited to see what they prepared for us and to share what we’ve been working on. 

One thing we noticed is that the smaller groups of York School friends are joining together during activities and feel more comfortable with each other. After a long travel period and the amazing shared experience of GPS, we are forming both new and stronger bonds. We can’t wait to continue to get closer and make more memories together. 

After school, we went on a walk through Chettipalayam in search of ice cream and laundry detergent to hand wash our clothes. Our mission was successful; we appreciated a long walk together and seeing the town. 

After day 2, we’re feeling more settled at school. Our excitement for the upcoming days and adventures continues to build. 

Keya and Sophie