Meet Our Students

Introducing Emma from France, who is bursting with excitement for her upcoming year in America—an opportunity she has eagerly waited for many years. Emma lives in France with her parents, younger brother, and their beloved cat, Nala. She describes herself as a “cheerful and open-minded person who delights in both the small everyday joys and the thrill of new adventures”. She sees herself as “funny, kind, honest, and sensitive.” Emma loves to travel. She is a huge fan of Star Wars, and a memorable moment was when her parents reenacted the iconic scene between Anakin and Padmé in Italy, creating unforgettable memories. In addition to her adventurous spirit, Emma enjoys baking treats like cookies, cakes, and desserts. She has a creative side, engaging in various handcraft activities, and she is passionate about music and playing the piano. In terms of sports, she enjoys snow skiing and basketball. She is eagerly anticipating her time in American schools, looking forward to joining clubs, sports teams, and other activities.

Matea is a FLEX scholarship recipient from Serbia. She shares, “My future, I'd like for it to consist of some kind of design. Ideally, I'd go to college to learn about art and incorporate it in my career. Some form of animation or character design, in movies or games. It's my passion and I just want others to be inspired by my work.” Matea has a wide range of interests connected to the arts: she loves both digital and traditional art. Her passion for video game design was sparked by playing video games with her father when she was younger. She enjoys visiting museums and galleries alongside her mother. In addition to her artistic passions, she has played volleyball for eight years and has formed lasting friendships through tournaments. Matea also delights in attending festivals and concerts, as well as exchanging books with friends. Matea describes herself as open-minded. She contributes to her household with various jobs, while also helping her grandparents on their farm. Matea is very excited about her upcoming exchange program and being a part of your family.

Tsukine (“Tsuki”) is a motivated and kind high school student from central Japan who is excited to experience life in the U.S. She is a dedicated member of her badminton team, known for her strong work ethic and determination to improve, and she also enjoys dancing and performing at school events. Tsuki hopes to join school activities like dance club to build friendships and strengthen her English skills. She comes from a close-knit family and values time spent together, often helping cook meals and even making sushi to share with her host family. Tsuki has previous homestay experience in Australia, which inspired her to pursue a longer exchange. She is eager to experience American school life, engage in classroom discussions, and share her Japanese culture and traditions. Tsuki would be a thoughtful, hardworking, and engaging addition to any host family.

Meet Elouann "Elou" from France. He has a very close family that includes his parents and two siblings. He describes himself as an energetic person with a great sense of humor. He is very athletic, and passionate about sports, especially basketball, which he plays daily. He hopes to experience the “sporting culture” (NBA, NFL) while living in the U. S. He also coaches a boys’ team and regularly referees games, gaining confidence and leadership experience. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, skiing, cycling, cooking and playing board games. He loves to prepare meals for his family on the weekends. Elou loves animals and enjoys caring for his dog, Marvel. He previously lived with a host family in Seville during a school exchange, where he adapted easily and loved discovering new traditions. Elou is motivated, respectful, and open minded. He is excited to meet his new host family to experience a new culture and traditions and to share his culture with you!

Emanuel (15) is a thoughtful and responsible student from Spain who brings calm curiosity and genuine warmth to every home he enters. He loves sharing stories at the table, helping with pets, and pitching in with daily routines. With a passion for nature, reading, sports, and music, he’s the kind of student who blends in easily while adding something meaningful—whether it’s a helping hand, a good conversation, or a new perspective. He writes, "I hope that, if we meet, we can create good memories together and that I can become not only a guest, but a real part of your family." Don’t miss the chance to welcome him into yours.

Salome is a passionate, outgoing, and creative student who loves reading, music, and outdoor adventures like hiking, skiing, and camping. She enjoys arts and crafts, puzzles, and staying active as a camp counselor. Coming from a close-knit family, she values connection, community, and helping others, especially her younger siblings. She is social and enjoys spending time with friends through simple gatherings, outdoor activities, and cultural outings. Salome is interested in pursuing a future in public relations, combining her communication skills with a passion for global connection. She is excited to experience American culture, build lifelong friendships, and become a part of a new family.

Meet Le Yuan from Taiwan.  His name “Lee” means “joyful” in his mother tongue of Mandarin- a name he says fits him well.  He describes himself as a positive, curious person who loves to smile.  He drew inspiration to embark on this adventure after living in the UK for a year with his family, he encountered and overcame cultural differences, learning a lot in the process. That experience taught him to step out of his comfort zone, now that he is a teen he is ready to experience these things on his own, as an exchange student in the US living with a host family.  He described himself as calm and easy-going.  He is also responsible and caring in that he describes routinely helping out around the house, cooking, cleaning and taking out the trash.  He also states that he is extremely grateful for this opportunity and very appreciative. His goals for himself for this exchange year include, making friends, joining clubs, and improving his English. He loves sports- he has been playing soccer since he was six, plays table tennis and enjoys long distance running.  He plays board games too including the game of “Go” an ancient Chinese strategy game. He is excited to meet his new American family!

Bella is a kind and energetic student who is excited about the opportunity to become part of an American family. She comes from a close-knit home where sharing meals, conversations, and everyday moments together are an important part of life. Bella has spent many years training in rhythmic gymnastics, a sport that has taught her discipline, perseverance, and strong time-management skills. She also enjoys dance and staying active, and loves the teamwork and excitement that comes with sports. Bella values kindness, respect, and communication, and she looks forward to experiencing American school life, joining activities, and learning about new family traditions. She is also excited to share her culture and create meaningful memories with her host family. Bella says, “I hope to become a real part of your family and share many happy everyday moments together.”

Boris is an honest, ambitious, and thoughtful student who is excited to become part of a host family and experience a new culture while growing as a person. He values meaningful relationships, adapts easily to new people and situations, and describes himself as patient, positive, and responsible. Family and close friendships are very important to him, and he comes from a supportive home where trust and open communication matter. He enjoys mountain activities such as skiing, hiking, climbing, and exploring nature, and he finds peace and freedom in the outdoors. One of his favorite travel memories is from Istanbul, where a simple day of exploring left a lasting impression on him. Boris is eager to share in family life, respect house rules, and fully take part in the everyday routines and experiences of his host family.

Meet Gabriel a very cheerful and smiling person according to his friends. Younger brothers and sister keep him busy building with Legos, playing video games or playing soccer. Soccer is a big part of his life and his family's. It doesn't matter if watching matches on television or playing in games, they all love soccer. His dad played professionally when he was younger, one of his brothers is on a high ranked team and he has played since childhood. He likes animals and has a cat named Swiffer that often sleeps with him.  Gabriel is studying administration, finance and marketing in school. He makes friends easily and can't wait to make new friends in America. In addition to improving his English, being an exchange student and part of your family will help him become more independent and responsible. He is willing to help with chores around the house and even cooking typical Italian food!