I am lucky enough to be participating in the Foreign Academy Exchange Program (FAEP) for the second time.  My first exchange was to Argentina in 2008.  FAEP is a program that is COMPLETELY paid for by the Academy, which sends you to a foreign military academy, Portugal in my case.  While you are at the foreign academy, you are partnered with cadets that serve as your guide to the country.  Common activities include visiting different units and cultural outings (soccer games, city tours, nightlife with locals, etc),  You are treated like royalty during your stay and have the distinct opportunity of being an embassador for the United States and West Point.  Many timies, the people you meet never interacted with cadets before and you provide that first impression we hear about so much in life. 

    This years program promises to be a great experience and something I know will teach me about the language, culture, and military of Portugal.  I wil continue posting throughout the trip, so stay current by logging on and checking out the new posts.  If you have any questions or comments feel free to post them.  Thank you and have a great one ;) 

PORTUGAL...HERE I COME!!!