Greenheart Exchange has been a sponsor of the J-1 Exchange Visitor visa since 1985. In our first year, we helped seven Spanish students find host families and attend high school in the U.S. on the J-1 visa. Now, we welcome hundreds of participants each year who live with American families and study in high schools all across America. Cultural exchange experiences can be life-changing for the high schooler AND for the host family. Meet our FLEX student, Elnara from Azerbaijan, who tells us about her wonderful program experience!
Hello!
My name is Elnara, I’m from Azerbaijan, and I have been granted with the opportunity to do an exchange year in the U.S!
I’m a FLEX student, and a proud part of Greenheart Exchange 💚
It’s been two months since I came to the U.S. on the J-1 High School cultural exchange, and it’s been incredible for me. Learning about American culture, lifestyle, and experiencing it beforehand really helps with my personal growth.
I’m in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and I attend Tea High School. I absolutely love my community and our school, teachers are very nice, students are open to learn about a new culture which is so cool! Some students even approached me and asked about my country.
Attending American High School for the First Time!
My favorite part of attending an American high school is all the endless opportunities to improve yourself in various fields such as athletics, music, arts, drama. I’m in choir, we will have 1-act play from drama, I’m a part of various clubs such as Future Business Leaders of America, School Council and Health Organization Club, and I’m excited for track and field season.
Let’s talk about the food as part of my cultural exchange! My favorite was definitely my host mom’s tacos, chicken quesadillas, and of course, a delicious American style burger. I share a part of my cuisine as well! I have cooked Qutab for my host family, which is a traditional dish, and they liked it.
Navigating the Cultural Shock!
The culture shock I had was definitely the casual atmosphere in many social situations. Back home, people tend to be more formal and reserved, especially when meeting someone for the first time. In the U.S., however, people were much more relaxed and friendly. This made me feel more comfortable and welcome! For the future students, I think doing an exchange year is important, because it provides an unparalleled opportunity to experience a new culture firsthand. You’ll learn about different customs, traditions, and values, and gain a deeper understanding of the world! You will step out of your comfort zone and develop new skills. You’ll become more adaptable, independent, and confident.
Creating an Unforgettable Experience
An exchange year is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life. You’ll make lifelong friends and create memories that you’ll cherish forever 🙂 Also, you can improve your language skills as you’ll have the chance to practice speaking, writing, reading, listening in a real-world setting.
I would also want to mention the host family experience. You will gain a second home, away from home! You won’t be a guest in their house, you will be a part of their family. A part of their household, their activities, their joy, their moments.
When I first arrived, I was really excited, and nervous, but it’s important to use your communication skills and take the initiative, be brave, meet new people! Start new conversations, be curious, and open-minded. Now I have friends and a second family that I will always stay in touch with.
The Joy of Volunteering
While having fun, it’s also important to give back to your community. I recently volunteered at the church where we were preparing food for the less fortunate. Volunteering can be a rewarding experience to give back to others and make a positive impact. Volunteering can help you develop important skills like empathy, compassion, and teamwork.
My favorite memory with my host family is definitely our road trip to the Black Hills. It was fun to explore my host state with them!
As for my local coordinator, she’s very welcoming, patient, passionate, and enthusiastic to learn more about her students. She has a really good understanding of the local community. She is willing to support us whenever needed.
The Best Memory
Playing the Powderpuff game during our Homecoming week is my best memory, so far. My only-in-the U.S experience was playing American football. It was fun and our team won the game!
Words of Wisdom to Students Interested in Trying a Cultural Exchange!
My message to every student out there, who wants to do an exchange year, go for it! It will be the most valuable experience ever, it will broaden your horizons, help you to meet new people, gain life-long friends, be involved in fun activities and improve yourself in various ways. Thank you, Greenheart Exchange, for giving me the opportunity to talk about my exchange year. 💚
Are you interested in learning more about hosting an exchange student, and becoming a Greenheart Host Family for an international high school student? Or would you like to be a welcome family? Visit HostwithGreenheart.org to apply today!