We’re excited to spotlight Hana from Japan, who is spending her 2025–26 school year in Arizona. She’s embracing school life, trying new sports, and making the most of every experience with her host family. Read on to hear Hana’s invaluable advice for future exchange students!
What inspired you to become an exchange student?
I wanted to experience a new culture, improve my English skills, and make friends from around the world.
Tell us about your life with your host family!
My host family is so kind and friendly. We watch shows together, talk about our day, and go to a lot of fun places. My host parents are also my soccer coaches, so we often talk about soccer practice and games. My favorite memory is when we all went to a pizza festival together. It was so much fun to try different kinds of pizza and spend time with my host family.
Can you share more about the sports or clubs you’re involved in?
I joined the swim team in the summer, and I’m currently part of the soccer team. In swimming, I broke the school record twice in the 100m butterfly. In November, I competed in the state tournament in the individual 200m freestyle, 100m butterfly, and the relay. I was able to reach the finals in the 200m freestyle. I didn’t win a medal, but it was an amazing experience. In soccer, I enjoy practicing and putting my soccer knowledge into action!
What advice would you give to future exchange students?
Have the courage to start conversations on your own! When I first arrived, I didn’t have enough courage. Even though we could choose our seats freely in class, I ended up sitting alone. I also ate lunch by myself at the beginning. Looking back, I wish I had talked to people more at that time. I could have had more chances to practice English and make more friends. I really hope future exchange students will try to take that first step and talk to others!
Are you interested in making a student like Hana a part of your family? We are looking for American host families to welcome a student for the upcoming 2026-27 school year. Check out the profiles of our wonderful students. New student profiles go online every Thursday!
