Austin Hinkley - Stanwood, Michigan
Austin is headed to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor with a major in Mechanical Engineering with an energy concentration. He also plans to pursue a minor in entrepreneurship. His goal is to work in the energy industry with a focus on innovation and efficiency of alternative or renewable energy.
“Vamos!” the varsity tennis team yelled in unison. Alvaro turned his head to look at the large group of us standing by the fence cheering him on in his tight one singles match. He cracked a sly smile.
Our team did not know what to expect when we heard a foreign exchange student from Spain would be joining our team in the late summer. We knew he was a talented player in Spain and our tight-knit team had accomplished three straight years of state tournament appearances, taking as high as fourth place and hanging a banner in our gym. We worried he would not fit in, that he would be cocky, and that he would not be a team player because of his inherent talent.
When he arrived, it was awkward because he was so quiet. Our questions were met with one-word answers. But as he became more comfortable with us, he began to open up. We took him to team dinners and continued to attempt conversation. It became apparent after only about a week that he enjoyed being a part of team and trusted us. We decided to adopt the saying, “Vamos!” as our team motto which translates loosely to “Let’s Go!” Whenever a team member was struggling in the heat of a tough match, we would yell, “Vamos!” across the court. Once one teammate yelled, it would catch like wildfire and the entire team would join in. This was a way to make Alvaro feel important and an integrated part of our team.
His talent helped lead us to a fourth consecutive state tennis appearance and an 8th place team finish where we cheered Alvaro on during his final match in the state semi-finals.
My experience with Alvaro taught me solid ways to integrate exchange students into school and community life. First, meet them where they are. Learn about them and their passions and interests. Become familiar with their personalities and how they prefer to interact. Then, utilize that knowledge to build relationships, both individually and as part of a team, club, or group. Support them as any other teammate and they will feel like a solid part of the organization. I learned not to be overbearing. Too much interaction and questioning can feel intimidating to those adjusting to life in a new country. Instead, allow time for comfort to grow, offer kind and genuine interaction, and use their cues to tell you when they are ready for a closer relationship.
Alvaro has taught our team so much about what it means to feel accepted and valued. He was a key member of our team both on and off the court and we cannot imagine not having him here. He tells us that our team has been his favorite part of his time in the USA because the comradery and support are much different than what he experienced in Spain. We now better understand Spanish culture. He is not an exchange student but a brother. “Vamos, Alvaro!”