Today, we hear from Lilli from Germany. She spent the 20/21 school year in a small town on a farm in Michigan as part of a double placement with another exchange student from Spain. Read on to learn why – even though everything was different from what Lilli was used to in Germany – her … Continue reading
Category Archives: Exchange Year 101
Cross-Cultural Activities: Aspect Students Getting Involved!
Today we are showcasing some of the fun and educational cultural enhancement activities that our stellar exchange students and their coordinators have participated in throughout the year! With Aspect Foundation’s mission of bridging cultures and offering culturally enriching experiences to all participants under the Department of State’s Leadership Education and Diplomacy (LEAD) program, our students … Continue reading
The End is Full of New Beginnings!
As the end of the school year draws near, so begins the period of transition when our wonderful exchange students prepare to return to their home country. While it can be difficult both for our students and their gracious host families, it is good to focus on all the growth, discovery, and newfound love that … Continue reading
Service – The Spirit of Cultural Exchange!
In light of kicking off Global Youth Service Day 2018 (April 20th-22nd) and Earth Day 2018 (April 21st), we would like to reflect on one of the values that makes a cultural exchange experience so rewarding: SERVICE. From our brave exchange students to our generous host families, to our nurturing coordinators who make sure their students and families have successful … Continue reading
Video | Exchange: Life in a Year
6 Things I Learned as an Exchange Student | Kristin from Norway
Kristin from Norway is experiencing America in Washington for the 2015-16 academic year. In celebration of International Education Week, she shares with us 6 things she learned as an exchange student. 1. I take too much for granted. It sounds weird, but at home, we really live in a bubble. We have a good life. We know … Continue reading
The American Experience
The 4th of July falls right in the in-between part of the exchange year — last year’s students have just gone home, and next year’s students are far away, still eagerly packing their suitcases. It’s a day where we can come together and celebrate our country’s history and the things that make us proud to be Americans. … Continue reading
Words from the Wise
Spending a year in America as a high schooler is a big decision. There are ups and downs, friends to make and cultural differences to navigate. Some of the best resources during your exchange year can be the other international students who have come before you! We’ve compiled some nuggets of wisdom for anyone considering … Continue reading