Hear it from our students / Life in the U.S.

Essential Tips for Incoming Students: Part Two

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Now that most of our 2024/25 students have arrived and begun to settle into their new homes, it’s the perfect time to share some tips to help them thrive this school year! Our 2023/24 students had an amazing experience, and have passed along invaluable advice. Read below to discover how you can make the most of your time in the United States!

Zoe from Germany (center) with her friends in Buckeye, Arizona

Be open and talk to as many people as you can. Always stay respectful and kind. Remember that for most people this is their day-to-day life, so to make plans and get into friend groups, you have to talk to people and do activities with them. 

– Zoe from Germany

Be active and engaged in the community, school, and programs. Say “yes” more! Some things are once in a lifetime. Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance or help.

– Zeynab from Azerbaijan, part of the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program sponsored by the Department of State

Noor from Pakistan (right) with Aspect Students during a Cultural Enrichment Activity hosted by International Coordinator, Kristine, in Seattle, Washington

Go for it! This one year changes you, changes the way you think and perceive things. The bonds you make. It is such a culturally rich and amazing experience.

– Noor from Pakistan, part of the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the US Department of State

Don’t be afraid of new beginnings, you’re stronger than you think. Try new things and get outside of your comfort zone. Say “yes” to new plans and new possibilities, you’ll learn a lot. Join an activity or sport to get to know more people. Be kind and try to always have a smile on you, because it will eventually inspire others around you and you’ll make a big impact in the community. Good luck, you’ve got this! 🙂

– Ines from Spain

Lavinia (right) and Giorgia (left) from Italy with their International Coordinator, Brittani, as they shop together in Texas

Be fearless, just jump into everything new, and push forward every time.

– Lavinia from Italy

Create and join multiple friend groups in different classes, because they will constantly expand throughout the year and you will always have friends no matter where your next class is.

– Philip from Norway

Daniel from Spain with the adorable host family dog in Little Elm, Texas.

Don’t waste any opportunity that appears your way!

– Daniel from Spain

Stay open-minded and embrace new experiences. Get involved in school and community activities to make friends and immerse yourself in the culture. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed, and keep a positive attitude even when facing challenges.


– Erekle from Georgia part of the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program sponsored by the Department of State

Mirja and Diego from Spain on a hike in Zions National Park organized by host mom and International Coordinator, Emily!

Make sure in group activities the only language spoken is English so nobody gets excluded. Try to always communicate with your host family so there are no misunderstandings.

– Mirja from Germany

Be open! People will come talk to you, but don’t think they’re just doing it to just be nice – they are interested in you! Enjoy every new experience and every conversation.

– Maria from Spain

Are you interested in making a student a part of your family for the spring 2025 semester? Submit an inquiry and you’ll be the first to hear when profiles of our first spring 2025 semester students go online!