HIGH SCHOOL in the USA
Cultural Exchange program
My AMERICAN ADVENTURE: HIGH SCHOOL, SNOW, AND SMILES IN MICHIGAN!
Hello everyone! Sawasdee krap! I'm Natthaya, and I'm a high school student from Thailand. For the past academic year, I've had the incredible opportunity to live a dream thanks to a cultural exchange program. I've been hosted by the wonderful Schenkel family in Michigan, USA, and I wanted to share some of the amazing highlights of my journey!
A NEW HOME AND FAMILY
Leaving my family in Thailand was tough, but the Schenkels made the transition so easy. From the moment I arrived, they welcomed me with open arms and treated me like their own daughter. Mr. and Mrs. Schenkel, and my host siblings, taught me so much about American culture, from celebrating holidays like Thanksgiving (hello, turkey and stuffing!) to just the simple joy of a family movie night. They've truly become my American family, and I'm so grateful for their patience, kindness, and all the laughter we've shared.
LIFE AS A U.S. HIGH SCHOOLER
High school in the U.S. is definitely different from back home! The atmosphere at Northview High (that's my school's pseudonym!) was so lively.
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Classes and Subjects: I loved the variety of classes offered. I took Photography, which isn't a common subject in my Thai curriculum, and absolutely fell in love with it. My US History class gave me a whole new perspective on the country's past. The teachers were all super supportive and understood I was still learning.
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School Spirit: The level of school spirit is something I'll never forget! Everyone at Northview was so passionate about their school. I especially loved the football games and the Homecoming Dance. Wearing my school colors and cheering with friends felt like something right out of a movie!
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Making Friends: My biggest worry was making friends, but my classmates were so friendly and curious about Thailand. They asked great questions about Thai food and culture, and they were always inviting me to hang out. I made some truly lifelong friends who made every day special.
MICHIGAN SEASONS AND ADVENTURES
Before coming here, I'd only seen snow in pictures! Michigan delivered a full, beautiful winter. Building a snowman with the Schenkels and going sledding for the first time were unforgettable moments. It was cold, but so magical!
Beyond the snow, Michigan is a beautiful state. The Schenkels took me to see the stunning Great Lakes and experience the beautiful autumn colors (another first for me!). These trips taught me how diverse the landscapes in America are.
MORE THAN JUST AN EXCHANGE, IT'S GROWTH
This program has been about more than just experiencing a new culture; it's been about personal growth. I'm much more confident speaking English, I've learned to be more independent, and I have a broader view of the world.
To anyone considering a cultural exchange program: do it! It will challenge you, surprise you, and enrich your life in ways you can't imagine.
Khob khun ka (Thank you) to the Schenkel family, Northview High, and everyone in Michigan who made this year the best experience of my life! I can't wait to take all these memories back to Thailand.
P.S. I’m going to miss American-style pizza, but I've promised to teach the Schenkels how to make real Pad Thai when I visit them again! Stay tuned for more updates!
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