Life in the U.S. / Student Spotlight

Student Spotlight – Militsa from Bulgaria

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Ready…Set…Hike! 🏈 Meet Militsa from Bulgaria, who is spending her 2023-24 school year in Nebraska with the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the US Department of State! Her dream of playing American football became reality when she arrived in Nebraska. Despite the absence of a girls football team, she fearlessly joined the boys team and quickly became a valued member! But Militsa’s talents don’t stop at the football field. Good luck, Militsa, and keep reaching for the stars!

Militsa wears her football jersey as she takes senior photos at her local high school in Omaha, Nebraska, 2023.

My name is Militsa, I’m 17 years old, and I’m from Bulgaria. In my free time, I enjoy reading books or binge-watching TV shows and movies. I absolutely adore dogs, candy, and sunsets. I’m into sports, planes, puzzles – let’s just say I have a lot of interests!

When I first learned that I would live in Nebraska, I was kind of sad because back home, I was a sailor and I knew I couldn’t do it here. But now, I love this state so much! Everybody is a Huskers fan, and I am proud to be one of them. I love how the weather changes all the time, and the people are so nice.

Militsa (center) and her host family staying dry during a Nebraska Cornhuskers football game!

My experience so far in the United States is amazing. I am so grateful for my host family and my friends. I love how nice and open-minded everyone is here, which was a surprise to me. We went to a Huskers game, which was awesome. We visited the zoo, a pumpkin patch, went to a baseball game, went thrift shopping, and a lot more.

Militsa (Wednesday costume) and her host family celebrated Halloween by dressing as the Addams family!

American football has always been a dream to me, but we don’t have it at home, so I asked if there was a girls team. When the sports teacher said that there is only a boys team, I was like, “oh ok I’m in.” It definitely was an impulse decision since I didn’t even know the rules, but I am so happy I made it. Now that it’s over, I miss it so much. The boys were so friendly to me. I played a little every Friday and got hit a lot, but I was so happy and proud of myself.

Militsa is ready to tackle any challenge she faces as she plays football in Omaha, Nebraska!

In the spring, I want to join the girls’ soccer team. I participated in a parade, and I loved it. Now I’m sad because I can’t be here for all four years. But I am still happy that I have this opportunity.

Are you interested in making a student like Militsa a part of your family? We are looking for American host families to welcome a student for the upcoming 2024-25 school year! Check out the profiles of our wonderful students! New profiles go online every Thursday!