Way back in August 2025, Meghan officially began her journey as a host mom when exchange student, Blanka, arrived in Pennsylvania, coming all the way from Poland. Over the course of eight months, the two made countless memories together–from move nights on the couch to sporting events to attending a friend’s wedding! Now, with such little time left before Blanka leaves the US, the two are making the most of it and reflecting on the year they’ve had!
By Meghan, First-Time Host Mom
May 4th, 2026
Two hundred fifty-five days ago, Blanka and I lugged her single oversized suitcase and carry-on up four flights of stairs to my apartment and to the lofted bedroom that would become hers. After months of anticipation, travel, and uncertainty, we barely noticed how exhausted we were. What we felt most was excitement. We were beginning an exchange year abroad together.
From the start, we called it our exchange year. It wasn’t just Blanka adapting to life in a new country – I was, too. I experienced my own version of culture shock as I adjusted to a shared home and a shared routine. Along the way, I discovered the joy of new foods, Polish music, and learning bits of a new language. I also faced challenges, especially when it came to communicating boundaries across cultural and language differences.
During those tougher moments, we leaned on our Greenheart Local Coordinator for guidance and support. And after difficult days, we would watch Gilmore Girls, wondering what would happen to Rory and Lorelai—perhaps just as much as we wondered about what was ahead for us.
A Memorable Spring
Spring brought meaningful shared experiences: attending sporting events, an Iraqi wedding for my best friend, spending time with my horse Indy, traveling locally to visit family and friends, and making simple trips to our favorite coffee shop for chocolate chip cookies. These ordinary and extraordinary moments alike allowed us to learn more about ourselves and each other, strengthening our relationship.
Now, with exactly one month until her parents arrive to take her home, we are beginning to bring closure to our life together while still trying to stay present, celebrate the highs, and carefully navigate the lows. Being a first-time host mom has been just as much an exchange for me as it has been for my host daughter. Thank you, Greenheart Exchange, for providing me with this opportunity!
Though it’s coming to an end, we’re so happy to hear that both Meghan and Blanka enjoyed their time together as host mom and daughter!
Are you interested in opening your heart and home to an international high school student? Visit HostWithGreenheart.org to meet our students and apply to host for the upcoming 2026-27 school year!