For the past two months, I have had the privilege of spending my Round Square exchange at Colegio Anglo Colombiano in Bogotá—an experience that has truly been unforgettable. Two highlights defined my time abroad: the incredible people I met and a remarkable week spent in the Amazon.

From the moment I arrived, the warmth and kindness of students and staff made Bogotá feel less like a city 14,000 kilometres away and more like a second home. Friendships formed quickly, and I found myself surrounded by people who were always eager to talk, laugh, and welcome us into their routines. That sense of connection is what I will remember most, and I now have bonds that stretch across the world.

My second major highlight was joining the school’s trip to the Amazon, where Colombia meets Brazil and Peru. For a week, we slept in hammocks, trekked through jungle trails, swam in winding rivers, and learned from local communities. Despite limited economic resources, everyone we met radiated joy—especially the children, who greeted us with endless enthusiasm. We played football with village residents, shared traditional meals of fish, rice, and patacón, and even tried pirarucu, a giant Amazonian fish.

Living in a city as vast and complex as Bogotá was eye-opening. Each commute revealed the challenges many people face, prompting deep reflection on the comforts and opportunities we often take for granted at home.

If I could bring anything back from Colegio Anglo, it would be the people—and perhaps their timetable and amazing school food. Short, engaging classes and a vibrant cafeteria made every day lively and communal. Even daily greetings, which involved handshakes or hugs for everyone, created a warm atmosphere I hope to carry forward.

Bogotá and Tasmania may be worlds apart, but each holds qualities I love. Combining the warmth, diversity, and energy of Colombia with the safety, nature, and ease of Tasmania would create the perfect blend—one I’m grateful to have experienced from both sides.

Samuel Fischer
Year 10