— WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO TO THE USA? Answer: I wanted to study abroad primarily to improve my English. I believe strong English skills can help me choose a future profession. It is also a very valuable life experience. Living abroad teaches independence — learning how to live without parents, make decisions on your own, and adapt to new situations. Adaptability is one of the most important skills in life.
Program location and time in the USA
— WHERE DOES YOUR EXCHANGE PROGRAM TAKE PLACE? Right now, I am on winter break and staying in Minneapolis, Minnesota. However, the boarding school where I study through the exchange program is located in Wisconsin.
— HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE USA? I arrived in the United States a few months ago, at the beginning of the academic year.
Adaptation and English improvement
— HAS YOUR ADAPTATION PERIOD ENDED? I would say mostly yes. Of course, there are always new things, but now it is much easier for me to communicate, study, and live in this environment.
— HOW HAS YOUR ENGLISH CHANGED? My English has improved significantly. You speak, listen, and think in English every day, and progress happens naturally, even without noticing it at first.
Application process and visa
— HOW DID THE EXCHANGE PROGRAM APPLICATION PROCESS GO? The process was step by step: documents, interviews, tests, and preparation. Everything was clear, and there was support at every stage.
— HOW DID YOU GET YOUR VISA? I had an interview at the U.S. consulate. It was a bit stressful, but overall it went smoothly and without any issues.
Independent travel and orientation camp
— HOW WAS YOUR FIRST INDEPENDENT FLIGHT TO THE USA? It was my first time flying alone. At first, it was a little scary, but everything went well and gave me more confidence.
— HOW WAS THE ORIENTATION CAMP IN NEW YORK? It was a very interesting experience. We met other exchange students, learned useful information, and had a great time together.
Living with a host family
— HOW IS LIFE WITH YOUR HOST FAMILY? Everything is good. The family is very friendly, supportive, and always ready to help if I have questions.
Why American families host students
Why do American families host exchange students? It is about cultural exchange. They are interested in learning about another country and culture, sharing their lifestyle, and helping students feel like part of the family.
Studying at an American school
— CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR AMERICAN SCHOOL? The school system is different from what I was used to. There is more independence, more practical learning, and closer communication with teachers.
A funny story about “You”
— WAS THERE ANY FUNNY SITUATION? Yes, there was a misunderstanding related to the word “you,” which led to a funny moment because I initially misunderstood the context.
American holidays
— WHICH AMERICAN HOLIDAYS STOOD OUT TO YOU? Answer: Holidays in the USA are celebrated very actively. There are decorations, shared activities, and a strong sense of community.
Free time and sports
— WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR FREE TIME? I play sports, spend time with friends, and take part in school activities.
Plans to continue education in the USA
— WOULD YOU LIKE TO CONTINUE YOUR EDUCATION IN THE USA? Yes, I am considering this option. This experience showed me that studying abroad suits me well.
Advice for future exchange students
— WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO STUDENTS CONSIDERING AN EXCHANGE PROGRAM? Don’t be afraid. There will be challenges, but they are part of the experience. In the end, you gain much more — knowledge, friends, and self-confidence.
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.