We asked and the students answered! ICES was inundated by responses from our students on what they love about high school in America.
Check out ICES students’ Top 8 Things Exchange Students Love about High School in America:
8. It’s just like the movies!
“The things that I love about American High schools are the sports, especially cheerleading, but also the games and the yellow school bus.”
Daliane from France, living in Depere, Wisconsin
Between American football, cheerleaders, school buses, and the classic lockers, high school in America is just like the movies! There may not be as much singing in the hallways as the movie High School Musical may suggest, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun.
7. Helpful, caring teachers
“I love how the teacher and students are willing to help everyone without hesitation.”
Sam from Hong Kong, living in Lisle, New York
ICES students reported how friendly and helpful the teachers and other students are at their schools. The teachers are passionate about what they do and will often go above and beyond to help their students succeed.
6. Changing classrooms throughout the day
“You can also choose the subjects you like the most and since you don't stay in the same classroom all day, it's easier to make friends and meet new people.”
Clara from Spain, living in Omaha, Nebraska
While in other countries it’s common for the students to remain in the same classroom all day as different teachers rotate through the rooms, in America the students move from classroom to classroom depending on the subject! This helps keep students awake, moving, and present in each subject’s class.
5. Diverse subjects and fun electives
“I really like the opportunities you get at a high school. There are so many different classes like psychology, food & nutrition or business management where you can experience things that can help you to develop and get an idea of what career you want to achieve.”
Josefine from Germany, living in Lake Orion, Michigan
The diversity of subjects in American high schools, and being able to choose some of your own classes, is a unique opportunity that is not accessible to young people in other parts of the world. This allows students to explore their hobbies, passions, and discover new topics that may have otherwise not entered their experience. A few of the electives that our students love include: cooking, photography, broadcasting, and more!
4. Mixed grade levels in the same class
“What I love about American high school is how you get to change classes and meet new people from different ages.”
Ana from Spain, living in Odgen, Utah
Another cool aspect of American high school is how there can be different grades present in the same class. For example, 10th & 11th graders may be placed together. This creates a chance for students to learn from each other’s experience and knowledge in addition to what the teacher can provide.
3. Clubs and activities
“I love the extracurricular activities! I’m in winter guard and drama club, i made a lot of friends like this, and we have competition and a lot of exciting experiences that make me feel part of something! I’m enjoying it a lot!”
Cristiana from Italy, living in Ville Platte, Louisiana
There is always plenty going on in American high schools other than just studying! Clubs and after-school activities allow students to explore their interests with like-minded peers. A few of the clubs that our students participate in are drama, forensics, and the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)!
2. School sports
“One thing I love about the American high school is the school sports. School sports have really have helped me to make friends and get new experiences. I was in cross country and now in tennis. It is so much fun to go practice after school with a super nice team of girls. I also love all the trips to meets and matches. I have made amazing memories from them.”
Silvia from Finland, living in Ringgold, Georgia
School sports is one of the top things that our exchange students loved about high school in America. With so many different sports to choose from, there is a chance for everyone to be active, meet friends, and even travel around!
1. School spirit
"I love the school spirit, the student section at the games that cheers like we are watching a NBA or NFL game. I love wearing the hoodies and shirts of the school, it makes you feel so proud of your school and a part of it."
Verinoca from Italy, living in Sissonville, West Virginia
From pep rallies to sports games to dress-up days, American high schools are rarely shy when it comes to expressing spirit! If sports aren’t your thing, then there are plenty of other ways to get involved in the school spirit as well. There’s nothing like dressing in your school’s colors and showing your pride with fellow students and the community!
Ask your exchange student what they love about high school in America and let’s add to this list together. What are we missing? Comment below!
