Adriana Lobo
Adrianna Lobo is from Spain and has always been curious about what it’s like to live in America. Since she arrived, she has noticed several differences between the education system in Spain and the US. One of the most significant differences is the relationship between students and teachers.
”Teachers are closer to their students and have more of a connection,” Lobo said. “In Spain, it’s like the teachers are not really close to the students. You just go to school to study and here they really care about you and your well-being which makes learning a much more enjoyable experience, ” Lobo said.
Another cultural difference that stood out to Lobo is school sports. Unlike in the US where they play a major role in school life, Spain doesn’t have school-sponsored teams. “Here school sports are such a big deal. There’s so many teams to join and everyone is really passionate about it,” said Lobo. “ In Spain we don’t even have sports teams connected to school, so this has been an amazing new experience for me.”
With new cultural understanding and fresh experiences, Lobo is making the most of her time in the US. and is sure to return home with a new perspective on education and student life.
Bruno Sosa
For Bruno Sosa, a foreign exchange student from Argentina, the transition to life in America has been smooth and exciting. He has always wondered what it would be like to live in the US, and now that he’s here, he has no complaints. Like Adrianna Lobo he has noticed differences in the education system, particularly in the way that teachers interact with students. “Back home school is more formal and the connection with teachers is different. Here they really try to help students and care about what they’re doing,” Sosa said.
Despite the differences, Bruno has found a sense of belonging in a new school. One unexpected highlight of his experience was discovering football. “Since arriving here in America I have tried football and I really liked it,” Sosa said. The opportunity to be a part of a team has been a very enjoyable part of his time in America.
While Bruno is embracing his new life, he admits there are aspects of Argentina that he misses. “I Really miss my Family and the food from home,” Sosa said. However he is grateful to have the chance to experience a different way of life.
As his exchange program continues, Bruno is excited to learn more about American culture and make long-lasting memories. His journey serves as a reminder of the beauty of stepping out of one’s comfort zone, embracing new experiences, and finding a home away from home.
Anna Caudal Pipard
Anna Caudal is from France and has always loved and wanted to travel. Becoming a foreign exchange student has given her the perfect opportunity to explore a new culture, meet new people, and experience life from a different perspective. Caudal said, “I think it’s a really good experience to see something new, discover a new culture, and see a lot of things that are different from France.” One of the biggest differences she has noticed while going to school in the United States is how different the school hours are in the U.S. In France students often have class from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., making for a long and structured schedule. Schools in the United States have much shorter hours, allowing for activities outside of school. This adjustment has given Caudal the chance to explore new interests and activities, something she has come to appreciate
Another big difference she noticed, just like Adriana and Bruno, is the relationship between students and teachers. “In France, it is much more formal and teachers are above students. Here in America everyone is on the same level,” Caudal said.
Beyond school, Caudal has been immersing herself in the social aspects of American life. She has made new friends, tried new food, and participated in activities that were once unfamiliar to her. “ I really love how welcoming people are here,” Caudal said.“It was scary at first, but everyone has been so kind and open.”
Although Caudal is very excited to return home, she admits leaving won’t be easy. “I think I will really miss the friends I’ve made here and my host family. They are really sweet,” Caudal said.
As Caudal prepares to return to France, she carries with her memories, friendships, and a broader perspective of the world. Her time as an exchange student has not only allowed her to explore another culture but has also given her a deeper appreciation for her own. While her journey in the U.S. may be coming to an end, the lessons she has learned and the relationship she has built will stay with her for a lifetime.
