Edelweiss : Children's High Level Group

Ana Maria Vanci

My name is Ana Maria Vanci and I'm almost 18 years old. Presently I live in a social apartment and study in Dante Alighieri high school. I didn't grow up within the child protection system. I only came here last year, through a friend who found out about my troubles at home and she sort of advised me to come here. Well, it's all right, I guess. It's peaceful and domestic, with all the duties one has to accomplish in the house. Moreover, I got to know many people and learned to socialize. I was taught a great many things and realized the world was not necessarily separated only into good people and bad people. There are so many differences and subtleties, so many types of people.

I've been in love with the Italian language since second grade; that would be about ten years ago. I loved it since the beginning. It comes so easily and naturally to me. I read and write poems in Italian. And then I heard about this competition, and that I could participate under the foreign languages section. It was a unique chance, because I will turn 18 this year and "Edelweiss" is addressed to children under 18. The actual exam didn't seem difficult at all: some grammar and an essay. I couldn't believe when I found out I won. When they announced the awards, I heard my name – Ana Maria, and I had to ask someone sitting next to me: "Did I hear right? Did they say my name?" I jumped with incredulity and sheer joy. Almost fainted going up those stairs to collect my prize. I was proud of this achievement, even though I had participated before in all sorts of competitions. But I felt I reached another level, I made a step forward. I surpassed myself and the average. "Edelweiss" didn't change my life nor gave it another course. Nevertheless it was a chance to put some strength in my own capacities and to consolidate my self-esteem. I'm glad I had the chance to profit from this opportunity given to youngsters to develop their abilities and put to trial their talents.

Since I was 16, I had part time jobs. Now I work in a call center and it's a good opportunity for me to practice my Italian. My jobs deals with marketing and polls: I have to call people and kindly ask them to answer some questions on topics covering anything from politics and economy or consumer habits. Working made me more mature and responsible and I see things differently now. I dream of going to Italy one day and actually see all those beautiful places I read about – Milan, Venice, Firenze. I dream of graduating the university. Until last year, I was sure I was going to choose foreign languages and literatures. Now I oscillate between psychology/sociology and marketing. I know I will have to deal with people. Sometimes it might get difficult, but I thing it's really rewarding. And last but not least, I see myself living peacefully in a flat somewhere together with my little brother, taking care of each other.