From Chicago to Samoa, Kendall loving her time here

By Haruki Ume 15 March 2018, 12:00AM

Kendall Arslanian may be far away from Chicago, America where she is originally from but she feels at home in Samoa.

She’s been here for more than six months and so far she loves her stay.  

During her first few weeks in Samoa, things seemed a bit strange for the 28-year-old.

But then she developed a sense of chemistry with the local Samoan people. 

“We have the same sense of humour and I really enjoy talking with them,” she said.

“This is one of the main reasons I enjoy working during the weekdays and spending time on holiday.”

She is here for work purposes, which involves her meeting new people every day – something she loves doing. 

“You know, it is very cool for me to get to know local people through my work. If I just study in the laboratory, I can’t get a meaning about my work and how my study can benefit someone. 

“But now, by communicating with local people, I deeply understand who I’m working with. It really helps me to maintain my motivation for study. I appreciate Samoa and it is all because of the Samoans.” 

Kendall added: “I love close relationships between the Samoan people. In developed countries, we lack face-to-face relationships because of modernisation. 

“But I think face-to-face relationships like here in Samoa are always important for people. 

“Samoa is the place I can learn how to interact with other people.” 

Kendall is not your average tourist who loves to relax by the beach.

She loves fitness, especially her other Samoan family, Crossfit Fatu Toa at Vaitele.

“I love the gym not only because I love exercising, but also because I’ve made a lot of friends there. There are a lot of friends I meet and I enjoy talking with them. 

“It helps me to relax and refreshes my mind. These personal relationships give me a lot of benefits when I want to do something new in foreign countries. 

“I want to say thank you to all Samoans for making my stay in Samoa a lot more enjoyable.”

Kendall is soon to leave Samoa’s shores but she promises to revisit the islands if time permits.

By Haruki Ume 15 March 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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