Several of last year’s AYA students took some time to write letters to the upcoming class of high school exchange students, which we will share throughout the 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 arriving students to help them get prepared.
Today’s letter is from Natalja from Germany. Natalja spent her high school exchange living with a host family in Minnesota.
Dear students,
You are probably really nervous right now. I felt the same way a year ago. Everyone around me was really excited, but I just thought about how hard it is to leave for a year. It takes courage, and I can promise you that even if it seems hard at the beginning, this experience is worth it!! Always remember, after every rain there is a little sunshine.
Oh—and always try new things!
Good luck,
Natalja
Learn more about opportunities for cultural exchange with Academic Year in America.
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