Each year, Lewis Cass has the privilege of hosting exchange students from all over the world. Their unique perspectives and experiences have enriched our school community and opened our eyes to different cultures and ways of life. A few of our exchange students, Heta from Finland, Marta from Italy, Geronimo from Uruguay, and Cat from Brazil explained more about their experiences during their time here in the US.
One of the first questions asked to our exchange students was about their favorite cultural experience while in the US. Heta shared that her favorite American food was sweet potatoes with marshmallows. Marta enjoyed Thanksgiving because it was a holiday she had never experienced in Italy, and Geronimo loved trying chicken alfredo. These small cultural experiences helped our exchange students to learn about our American culture.
However, it was not all smooth sailing for our exchange students. They all faced moments of culture shock during their time in the US. Heta was surprised by the school lunch, which was very different from what she was used to in Finland because she found it disappointing and unhealthy. Marta found it challenging to adjust to the early dinner times and the 6-hour time difference from Italy. Geronimo struggled with the meal times, as well as the differences in the school system compared to Uruguay. Despite these challenges, our exchange students have embraced their time in the US and have made the most of every opportunity.
Living with a host family was another highlight of our exchange students’ experiences. Heta described her host family as some of the nicest and kindest people she knows, and Marta enjoyed spending time with her host family and participating in American holidays like Thanksgiving. Geronimo appreciated the support and love he received from his host family, making him feel like he was part of their family.
Traveling to different parts of the country was a memorable experience for our exchange students too. Marta visited Washington DC, Texas, Chicago, Tennessee, and New Orleans, while Geronimo went to Florida and Idaho with his host family. These experiences allowed our exchange students to see different parts of the US and learn more about its diverse culture and geography.
In terms of academics, our exchange students had some memorable experiences during their time in the US. Heta found Senior Reality Day to be a valuable learning experience, while Marta appreciated the opportunity to try new sports and activities at school. Geronimo was surprised by the American school system, which he found to be much easier than what he was used to in Uruguay. Schools back home for us required more research and information that had to be synthesized rather than just stated. These academic experiences have helped our exchange students to grow and learn in ways they never expected.
Despite facing stereotypes and misconceptions about their home countries, our exchange students remained positive and open-minded throughout their time in the US. Marta encountered jokes about the mafia and Italian cuisine, while Geronimo had to clarify misconceptions about Uruguay. These experiences taught our exchange students to challenge stereotypes and educate others about their home countries.
As their time in the US comes to an end, our exchange students are reflecting on their experiences with gratitude and fondness. Cat will miss her friends and the practices after school as well as watching football games, while Geronimo will miss his host family and participating in sports like football and wrestling. These experiences have shaped our exchange students in ways they never imagined, and they will carry these memories with them for the rest of their lives.
In conclusion, the experience of our exchange students has been one of growth, learning, and cultural exchange. All are grateful for the diversity and passion our exchange students have brought to our school community, and we wish them all the best in their future.
