The experience of a foreign exchange student

With the reality of COVID-19 setting in, airports and other methods of traveling have once again opened up to the public—meaning foriegn exchange students can once again travel abroad too. This year, SJHS welcomed four forigen exchange students, two of which came from Italy.

“I was just tired of Italy, especially the school. It was really stressful and I wanted change so I'm happy to have made this decision. It's hard cause I miss my family and friends, but I know this year will make me grow a lot,” Chiara Nonini, 12 said.

Chiara plans to stay in the U.S until the end of June while staying with a host family and sister, Riley Mullin, 12,  who she described as extremely caring, and that they treat her like she’s their own daughter. Also being on the swim team, she mentioned that at first it was hard to get accustomed to her busy schedule.

“We are not so busy in Italy during the day. I have to get used to this way of living. I don't have time to do anything or relax. I have practice everyday and then I come home and do homework. It surprised me because my idea was that you guys had a lot of free time,” she explained.

Foreign exchange students like Chiara provide SJHS students the opportunity to gain a new perspective. These students experience many culture shocks such as language differences, customs, and weather. How else does America differ in the eyes of someone who didn't grow up here?

Andrea Ferraroni, 12, answered this question by bringing up the difference in fashion styles.

 “We don't have a real dress code in Italy, but for example, you still won't go to school in Crocs or pajamas,” he said. This, the fact that football games are a real thing, and fettuccine alfredo seem to be the most shocking things to Andrea in America, who is otherwise adjusting well with his host family and school curriculum.

But he also mentioned a difference in the school environment. 

“The connection you have with teachers is not the same in Italy,” he said. This is mainly because in Italy, the teacher is the teacher and nothing more. In the states, he’s noticed teachers tend to be less formal and have a friendlier demeanor with their students. 

Studies have shown multiple benefits that come from studying abroad: independence, language acquisition, and career opportunities. While Andrea and Chiara agree traveling to another country may be difficult at times, they know ultimately they’ll gain an experience like no other while they learn many skills that will help them in the future.

photos by hailey mercado