Before starting my exchange year, I thought I had a pretty good idea of what to expect. I had heard countless stories from former exchange students, especially on social media.
Looking back now, I realize that there's so much more to this experience than just having fun and living in a foreign country. That's what motivated me to share my perspective and the lessons I've learned with future exchange students.
When I made the decision to go abroad, I expected to learn about a new culture, experience school in a different country, meet new people, and improve my English. All of those things did happen—but there's a whole side of the exchange experience that isn't often talked about or shown online. And that's what I want to share with you.
First day of school
Last summer, with everything packed into one suitcase, full of excitement, anticipation, and a little nervousness, I stepped onto the plane that would take me far away from home and into a brand-new life across the ocean.
It was hard to say goodbye. Walking through airport security, it hit me that this was really happening. Even though I had prepared for months, I still felt a little unready and uncertain—but above all, I was excited.
My journey began with orientation days in New York City, where I met people from all around the world. I still remember how big and overwhelming everything felt. I had never been to the United States before, so seeing everything I'd only heard about was surreal.
Three weeks later, school started. I was nervous at first, but I quickly realized how fun it was—and how kind and welcoming everyone was.
Before I knew it, the year flew by. In just a few months, I experienced so many "firsts": my first homecoming dance, football games, ice cream runs after school, cheer practice, competitions, riding a yellow school bus, and laughing with friends at the lunch table.
First football game as a cheerleader
In the nine months I've been here, I’ve met amazing people, tried new sports, visited beautiful places, made countless memories, and built a new life in such a short amount of time. Sometimes it felt like I was living in a movie.
Words can't fully express how grateful I am for all these experiences and for the people who made this year so meaningful.
But it wasn't always easy and fun. I've struggled—and still do. There were moments when I wanted to give up. I felt homesick and missed the food, traditions, and people from home. Sometimes I felt like no one here really understood me.
I was disappointed at times because I thought this year was supposed to be "perfect." When it wasn't, I felt like I had done something wrong.
Basketball cheer competition
But I've come to realize that imperfection is part of the journey. Yes, I improved my English and made new friends. But I also learned a lot about myself—how to speak up, how to be brave, and what really matters to me.
For all that I've learned, for all the growth, and all the memories I've made, it was absolutely worth it.
If your exchange year is still ahead of you, here's what I want you to know:
What you see on social media is only the highlight reel. You will have incredible moments like those—but you'll also feel sad, and that's completely normal.
There's nothing wrong with you if you feel homesick or lonely. You'll miss your family, your friends, your routines—but when it's time to return home, it'll be just as hard to leave.
Eating lunch with my friends
You'll miss the new life you built, the people you met, and everything that became part of your daily life.
Your experience might look different from others', and that doesn't make it any less valuable. It just means it's uniquely yours.
Don't be afraid to reach out to people. Say yes to new things. Make the most of every moment, and enjoy it while it lasts.
You will change—the way you think, the way you see the world, and the way you see yourself. And in the end, it will be worth it.
No matter how challenging it gets, it's an experience that will stay with you forever.