Meet Our Students

Natan is a responsible, respectful, and family-oriented individual from Germany who values strong relationships and meaningful experiences. Growing up in a close-knit household with parents and a younger sibling, he is used to contributing to daily routines and understand the importance of communication, cooperation, and mutual respect within a family. An active and disciplined person, Natan has a strong passion for sports, including Muay Thai, calisthenics, and wrestling. Physical activity plays an important role in his life, not only for health but also as a way to connect with others and build friendships. He is also open to exploring new hobbies and activities during his exchange year. Natan's Catholic faith is an important part of his identity, shaping his values of responsibility, kindness, and respect for others. At the same time, he is open-minded and appreciative of different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. Natan enjoys a simple and healthy lifestyle, values time spent in nature and has a fondness for animals. While he has specific food preferences, he is independent and willing to take responsibility for his own needs. Described as reliable, adaptable, and considerate, Natan is ready to become a positive and supportive member of a host family while embracing personal growth, independence, and new opportunities throughout his exchange year.

Artjom is a motivated and curious exchange student from Estonia who comes from a close-knit and supportive family. Growing up in a small town surrounded by nature, he has developed an appreciation for both the outdoors and meaningful connections with others. He enjoys spending time with his family, staying active, and exploring his interests. A dedicated athlete, Artjom has been rowing for over five years, often training alongside his father. He also enjoys music, movies, and learning about different cultures. His travels across Europe have sparked a strong interest in global perspectives and languages—he already speaks three and is eager to learn more. Academically driven, Artjom hopes to pursue a future in the IT field by studying at a university and building a successful career. Through his exchange experience, he is excited to learn about American culture, gain independence, and grow into a responsible and open-minded individual.

Maj is a friendly, open-minded, and adventurous 16-year-old from Denmark who is excited to experience life as an exchange student in the United States. Curious about American culture and traditions, Maj looks forward to experiencing everyday high school life, including homecoming, prom, and holiday celebrations like Halloween and Thanksgiving. An active and dedicated student, Maj has practiced Taekwondo since the age of seven and currently holds a 2nd Dan black belt. Outside of sports, Maj enjoys spending time with friends, going to concerts and movies, and hopes to explore a growing interest in acting by joining a drama club during the exchange year. Maj describes themselves as cheerful, easygoing, and adaptable, qualities developed from being the youngest in a busy family with strong family connections. Excited to improve English skills, gain independence, and build lasting friendships, Maj is eager to embrace new experiences and become part of a welcoming host family and community.

I'm currently attending my third year at the High School of Science and I really love it! Science, physics, and math are really interesting for me. I've always wanted to have a pet but my mother says that it requires a lot of work, so I hope to have one in America! One of my hobbies is cooking, I usually bake cookies, cakes, and typical Italian sweets. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes. I love watching horror/thriller movies and series, I really enjoy the type of adrenaline--I also read thriller books! I love practicing all sports, but my favorite is basketball! I adore moving and achieving small goals, and tend to be considered competitive. Once a week I have a meeting in church with my peers, we discuss current topics and prepare activities and games for children, and I volunteer every year in a parish summer camp! I am really excited to learn and absorb the American culture. I always dreamed to celebrate the famous Thanksgiving, to baking Christmas cookies, and to watching a movie while eating popcorn from those huge bags! I'm so happy to represent my country, and I'll cook every Italian dish you are willing to try! I am so grateful for this opportunity and I'm sure we will make many unforgettable memories together!

I’m really excited about the opportunity to come to the United States as an exchange student and become part of your family. Family means a lot to me—I’m very close with my parents and my older sister, whose own exchange experience inspired me to take on this adventure myself. Sports are a big part of who I am. I’ve played tennis since I was young and compete regularly, and I’m also passionate about skiing, where I race competitively in the Alps. Through these experiences, I’ve learned perseverance and teamwork, to stay focused, to keep going when things get tough, and to never give up. Outside of sports, I enjoy music, spending time with close friends, traveling, and being around animals—especially my dog, who is a big part of my life. I value strong relationships and meaningful experiences, whether it’s with friends back home or new people I meet. More than anything, I’m looking forward to fully immersing myself in your culture, sharing daily life with your family, and building real connections. I’m eager to help out, be involved, and grow through this experience.

Luca is an open-minded, active, and positive student who is excited to experience life in a new culture and become part of a host family. He enjoys meeting new people, building meaningful connections, and bringing humor and good energy into every environment. Adaptable and respectful, Luca approaches new challenges with curiosity and enthusiasm. A passionate soccer player and fan, Luca loves the teamwork, discipline, and excitement the sport brings. He also enjoys spending time outdoors, walking his dog, listening to music, traveling, and being active during vacations through activities like skiing and snorkeling. Family and friendships are very important to him, and he values spending quality time with the people closest to him. Luca hopes his exchange year will help him grow more independent, improve his language skills, and broaden his perspective by experiencing a different school system and culture. He looks forward to creating unforgettable memories, sharing experiences with his host family, and contributing positive energy to their home.

Meet 18-year-old French student Ilona who has dreamed of being an exchange student since she was 13. Family is very important to her and she lives with her mother, step-father and brother. She loves simple moments with her family like playing board games, talking, laughing and watching movies along with an evening talking with friends. Her friends describe her as sunny, kind, generous, caring and always willing to help She is passionate about reading, especially romance novels, and loves to travel. Recently she had the opportunity to travel to Slovenia for a one-week school exchange. She chose the USA for her exchange year, because the country has always fascinated her, she wants to improve her English and to step out of her comfort zone in a new environment. Ilona is excited to go to prom, choose a fun class in high school, try new activities such as cheerleading or track & field, carve a Halloween pumpkin, see an American football game and celebrate Thanksgiving.

Jean lives with his parents, two brothers, sister and dog. He was born in the Caribbean and lived there for the first seven years of his life. He is a practicing Catholic and goes to church every Sunday. In his free time, Jean likes to play tennis, running, swimming, and cycling. He has been involved in scouting for several years. His friends and family often say that he brings energy and joy to the people around him. 

I'm a really sporty girl, I enjoy running, climbing, doing Pilates, and wakeboarding just to name a few! Climbing is my favorite sport, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. I'm a really curious person and I like to discover new things like new cultures, new sports, or new activities...I can't wait to discover your passions and practice them with you! In the future, I would like to be part of the scientist police and work on crime scenes. I want to bring justice to a victim's family, and I think this would be good for me because I like to solve puzzles and be observant. I have a cat called Groot, just like in Guardians of the Galaxy! She's very friendly and always hungry. I'm looking forward to meeting you and starting this adventure!