HOST EXCHANGE STUDENT | High School in the USA

MY UNFORGETTABLE YEAR IN

THE UNITED STATES WITH HSUSA

Hi there! My name is Lilou, I’m 19 years old, and last year I had the incredible opportunity to spend a year abroad in the United States through the HSUSA exchange program. It was ten months full of joy, discovery, and amazing encounters, living in the heart of Houston, Texas, with a wonderful host family who quickly became like a second family to me.

EXPERIENCING THE AMERICAN SCHOOL LIFE

From August to early June, I attended an American high school, surrounded by students my age. Everything felt new — the language, the school system, the traditions… and the energy! Before long, I joined my school’s track and field team, which allowed me to travel across Texas for competitions. Those moments — the team spirit, bus rides, cheering crowds — created an unforgettable atmosphere.

The LEAD Program: Growing from the Inside Out

HSUSA also offered a personal development program called LEAD, which I joined throughout the year. It helped me better understand myself, build confidence, and develop a more open mindset. The best part? I’m still using what I learned there today!

Memories I’ll Never Forget

SO MANY MOMENTS LEFT A MARK ON ME…

The Homecoming football game surrounded by all my friends was absolutely unforgettable. I also loved the themed spirit days at school — everyone dressed up, and the hallways looked like something straight out of a movie.

With my host family, we even took a trip to Vermont, one of the most beautiful experiences of the year. And every day, I loved discovering the little American traditions that make daily life so unique.

FOOD DISCOVERIES

Of course, I can’t talk about my year in the U.S. without mentioning the food! I learned lots of new recipes and spent so much time cooking together with my host family. I discovered Texas barbecue, brisket, hotdogs, fried pickles, cheesecake, donuts… and yes, there were some vegetables too 😄

SPORTS, FUN, AND BIG ADVENTURES

Outside of school, I had the chance to join a circus school — the sport I practice back home in France. I also continued track and field and went regularly to a local gym near our house. When I wasn’t doing sports, I loved spending time with friends doing fun activities like ceramic painting, going to the movies, concerts, shows, shopping, or just grabbing an ice cream together.

WHAT I LEARNED

Living in the U.S. taught me so much:

I became fluent in English,
I gained independence,
and, most importantly, I built self-confidence.

I was also amazed by how big everything is — from cars and stores to milk and orange juice cartons! Everything felt oversized, which made the experience even more fascinating.

A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE

Every single day there was a discovery. I made the most of every moment, every smile, every adventure.
My year in 2023–2024 will forever remain one of the most meaningful, exciting, and life-changing experiences of my life.

If you’re thinking about doing a student exchange — go for it! It’s truly an experience that changes you forever.