HIGH SCHOOL in the USA
Cultural Exchange program
MY AMERICAN ADVENTURE: A YEAR IN MINNESOTA WITH THE JENNESS FAMILY
by Silja, 16, from Germany
When I first heard that I’d been accepted into a high school exchange program in the United States, I couldn’t quite believe it. I’d always dreamed of experiencing American school life — the yellow buses, the Friday night football games, the school spirit — but it still felt unreal that I, a 16-year-old from Germany, was actually going to live it.
In August, I boarded a plane from Frankfurt to Minnesota, where I would spend the next ten months living with my host family, the Jenness family. From the moment I stepped off the plane, they welcomed me with open arms (and a handmade sign with my name on it!). I instantly felt like part of the family — not just a guest.
LIFE WITH THE JENNESS FAMILY
The Jenness family lives in a cozy town surrounded by lakes and forests — something Minnesota is famous for. My host parents, Sarah and Mike, have two kids around my age, and they made sure I was involved in everything from family dinners to weekend trips.
One of my favorite memories was when we went ice fishing in January. I had never experienced anything like it! Sitting on a frozen lake in a tiny cabin, drinking hot chocolate while waiting for fish to bite — it was so peaceful and completely different from life in Germany.
The Jenness family also introduced me to American traditions like Thanksgiving and Halloween. I helped carve pumpkins, made a turkey for the first time, and even went trick-or-treating with my host siblings. It was magical to experience the holidays from a new perspective and feel included in their family traditions.
SCHOOL SPIRIT AND NEW FRIENDS
Attending an American high school was one of the most exciting parts of my exchange. Everything felt so lively and community-oriented — from morning announcements to pep rallies. I joined the school choir and soccer team, which helped me make friends quickly.
At first, I was nervous about my English, but my classmates were super friendly and patient. Soon I was even helping with German Club, teaching some of my American friends a few phrases in my native language (they especially loved learning how to say “Bratwurst” correctly!).
I loved how supportive teachers were and how much emphasis was placed on participation and creativity. It made learning feel fun and interactive, not just about memorizing facts.
WHAT I LEARNED
My year in Minnesota taught me so much more than English or American culture. I learned how to be independent, open-minded, and adaptable. I discovered that even though people around the world have different customs, we share the same kindness and curiosity.
Being part of the Jenness family made me realize that “home” isn’t just a place — it’s the people who make you feel welcome.
A MESSAGE TO FUTURE EXCHANGE STUDENTS
If you’re thinking about joining a high school exchange program, go for it! It’s not always easy — there are moments when you’ll miss home — but the experiences, friendships, and confidence you’ll gain are worth it a hundred times over.
To my American family: thank you for making my dream come true. You’ve given me memories I’ll cherish forever — from Minnesota snow days to backyard bonfires.
Until next time, USA!
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