This year, quite a few scholars at our school decided that they would like to embark on a journey to another country for amazing learning experiences, new friends, and a taste of a totally different culture. One of these students was Claire Charlton, who is currently a Junior. When asked what motivated her to join the exchange program, Claire responded that she has been learning Spanish since she was little and it was always something she wanted to learn more about. She said, “My brother wanted to do it all four years but it never worked out for him, we always planned for me to do it.” She shared about the two fake-outs she had her freshman and sophomore year, where she thought she would go on the trip but the plans never held. Finally, her junior year, Claire had the amazing experience of travelling to Mexico. She told me, “My first impression when I first arrived in Mexico was that I was really tired, since it was 3 am. But everyone there is so nice and thoughtful and welcoming.”

image above from wikipedia.com

When asked about what cultural differences shocked her, Claire told me that, “I have a whole list to be honest. No one uses AC in their cars, at least the place I went to, even if they were on the interstate. Windows down all the way. They don’t use ice cubes, and stray dogs just walk around. Dogs are like squirrels there. My favorite part was that everyone gives a kiss on the cheek when they’re saying goodbye or hello. All of the high schoolers LOVE K-Pop.” Claire got to participate in a fun tradition where she said that “they make fun of the Spaniards that colonized them and they dance and wear masks and I wore a cool hat. I loved the food.” She tole me about how kind her host families were, as she stayed with two different girls when she was there. They gave Claire gifts and were so sweet, and she made so many new friends. She also mentioned how much she loved the way her host families prepared corn. Such a simple food, but it was so good.

Finally, I asked Claire what her advice would be to anyone who is on the fence about doing the exchange program. She said, “Honestly, just go and make the most of it. Obviously at first you are homesick and you miss your family, but just try to live in the moment and realize where you are and what you’re doing. This is an experience that not everyone gets to have in their life and you’re traveling, so just make the most of it.”