The New Girl: Ellen Petersen

   This semester, Chadron High school gained a new student named Ellen Petersen. Ellen was not only new to Chadron, but Nebraska as well. She was originally a Danish student, but is part of the exchange program that allows students to experience foreign cultures.

      Ellen is not new to the USA, but has been here two times beforehand. She was here once when she was six and another time last spring. She arrived once again in the United States on August 13 of this year. At that time she was in Alliance until January 14, at which point she arrived in Chadron.

      Why did Ellen come here? She said, "I was in Alliance before, which was good. But Shay's family picked me as their foreign exchange student, and CHS accepted me. It worked out pretty well." Living with the Chamberlains is easy, and for Ellen it is something she “loves”.

       Chadron seems to be working out pretty well for Ellen, as she is well involved at the many activities CHS offers. She participates in Cardinal Singers, is a member of the Interact Club, competes in speech, and is currently acting in the spring play. Ellen's favorite thing at Chadron High is the fact that "it has so many great teachers and students." Ellen has also made plenty of friends here, and many students perceive her as friendly and smart.

      When gone to another country, which can seem like a completely different universe at first, one may wonder if Ellen misses her home. She says, "Yes, I do miss my home, mostly my family and friends. Oh and the food, especially a Danish dish called rugbrod." Although Ellen misses home occasionally, she looks forward to the future. "I can't wait for graduation, and I will continue to enjoy meeting new people and just having a good time."