A new video interview has been published featuring a participant of a high school exchange program who is currently studying at an American school and living with a host family in the United States. In the interview, she shares her personal experience of participating in the program, including the application process, school life, host family arrangements, and everyday life during the academic year.
Ekaterina has been in the United States since late August and is attending a school located in a small town in the state of Kentucky, near the border with several neighboring states. At the time of the interview, she is completing her first academic semester and beginning the second. According to her, the decision to join the program was a deliberate step, influenced by previous international experience and an interest in the U.S. education system.
The interview covers the application process and the visa interview in detail. Ekaterina notes that she completed most of the application forms independently, seeking clarification when necessary. Her visa interview took place outside her country of residence. She explains that with well-prepared documentation and confident communication, the process proved to be structured and straightforward.
A separate part of the interview focuses on studying at an American school. Ekaterina talks about the flexible subject selection system, the ability to combine academic courses with creative and practical subjects, and her interaction with teachers and school administrators. According to her observations, the learning environment is characterized by greater flexibility and openness compared to the school system she was previously familiar with.
Significant attention is also given to her host family experience. Ekaterina lives with a family that has prior experience hosting international students and participating in social programs. In the interview, she describes everyday family life, shared holidays, and regular communication, noting the role of the host family in her adaptation and integration into the local community.
The conversation also touches on extracurricular activities, travel within the United States, and reflections on future educational plans. Ekaterina notes that participation in the program has helped her better understand the structure of the U.S. education system and broaden her perspective on possible educational pathways.
What is important to consider
- The experience described reflects the individual situation of a specific program participant.
- Educational, living, and school environments may vary depending on the state, school, and host family.
- This material is based on a video interview and presents personal experience without interpretation or evaluative judgments.
Source: Video interview with an exchange program participant, WayUSA / Exchange Programs YouTube channel