By: Joy Chang, Taiwan
“Even after 17 years, whenever I think back to my high school exchange year, I can’t help but smile from my heart and wish to return to that time. This feeling, I believe, speaks to the magic of the program.
Travelling From Taipei, Taiwan, to Newberry, Michigan
In 2007, I traveled alone from Taipei, Taiwan, to the small village of Newberry, Michigan. Compared to Taipei, Taiwan, the warmth I felt in Newberry made me fall in love immediately. People would chat casually with strangers, smile and hug, and openly express care. These gestures of warmth and friendliness were unlike anything I had experienced growing up in a more reserved Asian culture.
Attending a U.S. Public School and Experiencing My Firsts
I attended the local public high school, and I loved that school ends early for us to join clubs, follow our passions, and select courses of personal interest. As a member of the basketball team, I experienced many “firsts”: my first home-and-away game, my first time playing for an audience packed with cheering supporters, and the realization that academics and enjoyment can coexist.
Cherished Memories
I hold countless cherished memories from school activities, like performing in the Marching Band, singing a Christmas song in Chinese in front of the entire school, playing games all night at school to celebrate graduation, and the Homecoming pep rally parade. Each moment felt unique and unforgettable, something I got to do only once.
My Host Family
One of the most meaningful aspects of this journey was the love and kindness my host family showed me. Every hug, every “goodnight” and “I love you,” and every “how was your day?” made me feel loved deeply. I still remember two specific moments that touched me profoundly. On my very first day, they saw me bring a can of Pepsi into the house. The next day, I found a whole case of it in the garage, though their family only drank Mountain Dew! Another cherished memory was being able to walk arm-in-arm with them for my last home basketball game. This will not happen in Taiwan until the day I get married I believe.
Even now, this exchange program has a lasting impact on my life. I try to bring the best of both cultures into my daily life, and it has shaped me into a better person. With my family, I am more expressive, sharing warmth, love and spending time together. I’ve even begun sponsoring a child in Taiwan who needs support, hoping that one day I can give the same positive influence that my host family gave me. At work, I try to build confidence in my students through positive feedback and encouragement, inspired by the warmth I once received.
Whether by nature or a bit of obliviousness, I chose to see every cultural difference with curiosity and wonder. Someone once said, “The world isn’t lacking beauty; it’s lacking eyes that see it.” I truly believe that if we all had just a bit more empathy and understanding, the world would be a better place. This is the atmosphere I strive to create in my classroom today.
If I had the chance to go back and choose again, I would, without hesitation, join this program all over again.“
Thank you, Joy, for sharing your amazing program experience with us!
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!