In this interview, he talks about school life, host family, English improvement, adaptation, travel, and his first months in the United States. This video reflects the personal experience of one student. Individual experiences may vary depending on school, host family, location, and personal background.
I’m from Ukraine, and many teenagers today choose where to continue their education — Europe, the USA, or staying at home.
London didn’t feel like the right option for me, so we decided to explore the United States.
Since childhood, there has always been an image of America — schools, movies, and culture. I wanted to see it with my own eyes and understand how life really works here.
English Level and Preparation
Before coming to the USA, I studied English almost every day, even during vacations and family events. I passed the tests well, but the biggest improvement happened after arrival, when English became part of everyday life.
Application Process and Family Support
At first, I tried to handle the application process on my own, and my parents trusted me. Later, we reviewed the documents together and found many mistakes.
Collecting school records, medical forms, and vaccination documents took time, but everything worked out in the end.
Getting a US Visa
I had my visa interview in Warsaw just a few days before departure. I chose to do the interview in English, since it was an exchange visa.
At first, it looked like the visa was delayed due to a social media check, but eventually it was approved.
Independent Travel Experience
I had traveled independently before, but never on such long flights. Airport staff were helpful, and even when small issues appeared, everything was resolved calmly.
New York made a very strong impression on me. It’s one of the most powerful and memorable cities I’ve ever visited.
Standing in the area where the Twin Towers once stood gave me a deep sense of scale and history. The orientation sessions were useful, but walking around the city was the most memorable part.
Host Family and Adaptation
My first host family didn’t work out, but with the second one everything was perfect. We quickly found common ground, and there was mutual respect and understanding.
Their openness and kindness made adaptation much easier.
American High School Experience
The main difference in American school is the approach. You choose subjects and study them throughout the entire year.
Even more important is the atmosphere — people are open, not afraid to be different or try new things.
Life After School
After school, I play basketball. I didn’t play much before, but now I really enjoy it — it helps with communication and staying active.
Completing the Adaptation Process
Around October, I felt that the adaptation process was complete. At some point, you stop waiting to go home and start wanting to stay longer.
English Skills Today
My English has improved a lot, but I want to continue developing and discuss deeper, more complex topics.
Traveling Around the USA
At the beginning, almost everyone has doubts and wants to give up. The key is to stay open, let go a little, and allow yourself to fully live through this year.
It’s a long and very valuable experience.
Advice for Future Exchange Students
At the beginning, almost everyone has doubts and wants to give up. The key is to stay open, let go a little, and allow yourself to fully live through this year.
It’s a long and very valuable experience
If you’d like to better understand how a high school exchange program in the USA really works and whether this experience is right for you, detailed information is available on the program page.