Several of last year’s AYA students took some time to write letters to the upcoming class of high school exchange students, which we have enjoyed sharing throughout these summer months. They wrote about their reflections, advice and best wishes to help next year’s group get the best start on making the most of their upcoming exchange experience.
The messages in these letters are valuable—to all participants in Academic Year in America programs. Host families and Local Coordinators can read these letters to understand the student’s perspective, and they can share these letters with upcoming students to help them get prepared.
This week’s letter is from Sophie from Germany. Sophie spent her high school exchange living with a host family in South Carolina.
Dear future Exchange Student,
Leaving your more than well-known home to start a new life on the other side of the world isn’t very easy, but it’s worth it! I remember my first few weeks in the States: all shy, barely speaking… I was embarrassed of my English, but there was no reason for it. It didn’t take me long to open up, and before I realized it, I was already an American.
People always say: “exchange isn’t just a year in your life; it’s a life in a year.” This quote is the best description about your exchange year that you’ll probably ever hear. You’ll build up a new family, get an entire new circle of friends and most important of all, you will change.
I don’t think that anybody comes back the same as they left, but it is a good thing! I’ve never felt more myself than now! Thank you AYA!
I’m sure you’ll have the greatest year of your life, and heads up—not everything always works out 100% the way you expect, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t be good!
Much love,
Sophie
Learn more about opportunities for cultural exchange with Academic Year in America.
What an awesome surprise so see this letter from OUR SOPHIE (STUDENT)!!!!! We love her and miss her more than words can say. I find myself saying quite a bit “remember when Sophie was here and we did this or we did that?” She made us a 2017 calendar for Christmas last year, so we still have memories to live over each month! She will ALWAYS have a special place in my heart.
~Lisa
Sophie was what I call a model exchange student. She experienced everything she encountered. Sophie brought so much joy to all. Host family is such a vibrant active family who have grown to be my friends. I feel so blessed to have met and worked with these people..I will never forget Sophie . Ginger Jeffcoat. LC. . SC/NC