Spring is in the air, bringing fresh experiences and unforgettable memories. This month at ICES, we’re celebrating the incredible journeys of our exchange students, the warm-hearted host families who welcome them, and the dedicated staff who make it all possible. From exciting cultural discoveries to heartwarming family moments, March is packed with inspiring stories that will make you smile.

SUPERSTARS ALL AROUND US

Carla Burges from Spain, and her host sister, Marinna Walling, woke up early to travel to Welsh, West Virginia, to assist flood victims. Despite the weather, they were driven by a sense of duty after devastating floods had affected fourteen counties. Carla and her host family spent twelve hours helping with cleanup, including mud-out work at Mt. Zion Church and a private residence.

Carla, eager to embrace life in West Virginia, quickly became a cherished member of her host family. At Memorial Baptist Church in Beckley, Carla shared her experience, highlighting the mission’s profound impact and how it brought people of all ages and backgrounds together for a common purpose.

Jade Oravainen, a talented Track and Field athlete from Finland, has had an incredibly successful exchange year in Montgomery, TX. Alongside her host brother, Jaden Flores, the pair have broken a total of 15 school records in the 2025 season. Jade has set six records and Jaden has broken nine records across various events, the two have competed at prestigious universities like Texas Tech, Texas A&M, and the University of Houston, as well as the New Balance Nationals Indoor Championships in Boston.

Throughout her exchange year, Jade has fully embraced every opportunity to develop her skills and has made lasting friendships. She is a remarkable exchange student, friend, athlete, and sibling, excelling both on the track and in academics. Jade's consistent achievements have earned her recognition and increased interest in student exchange programs in Texas, solidifying her place as a standout athlete and ambassador for Finland.

For two weeks, contestants at Saint James dedicated their after-school hours to preparing for the highly anticipated Miss Saint James pageant. Among them was our very own Růžena Milulová from Czech Republic, who eagerly took on the challenge.

The event began with private interviews, where each contestant had a one-on-one session with the judges. As the audience arrived, the show opened with a lively group dance performance. Růžena then took the stage for the fun fashion walk, proudly showcasing her personality with a USA cape as her chosen accessory.

During the talent portion, she impressed the crowd by playing the flute, followed by a breathtaking evening walk and an on-stage interview. The entire experience was unforgettable for Růžena. Coming from a country where such opportunities are rare, she was incredibly grateful to be part of this special event.

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

Congratulations to Laura Pohlyova from Slovakia, our latest Student of the Month! Since arriving at Pelahatchie High School in Brandon, Mississippi, Laura has impressed everyone with her dedication to academics, athletics, and cultural exchange. She’s excelled in her English classes, earned top honors at the State Beta Convention, and shined on both the soccer and tennis teams. Beyond her academic and athletic success, Laura’s kindness and leadership have made her a positive force in the school community.

Well done, Laura! 🎉

As our Student of the Month, Laura will receive a certificate of achievement, a letter of recognition from ICES President John Crist, and a $100 Giftogram.

LOOKING AHEAD

CSIET is currently hosting its 23rd Annual Art Cover Design Contest! High school exchange students inspired by their experiences were encouraged to submit artwork representing the spirit of youth exchange and how it transforms the lives of young people. The winner’s artwork is featured on the cover of the 2025-2026 Advisory List, along with her name and CSIET-certified Exchange Program, as well as on the CSIET website. In addition, the winner receives a cash prize of $500.

Deadline to Enter: Tuesday, April 1, 2025

Enter here: CSIET Art Cover Design Contest

To view available students, contact your Local Coordinator or go to:

ICES MEET OUR STUDENTS PAGE 

Join the Community of Amazing ICES Local Coordinators!

Are you passionate about culture, education, and community? Become an ICES Local Coordinator and help foreign exchange students fulfill their dreams while bridging cultures! As a Local Coordinator, you'll play a vital role in welcoming students from around the world, supporting host families, and fostering global understanding. Click the link below to learn more and start making a difference today!

To learn more, visit us at ICES LC RECRUITMENT 

AROUND THE WORLD

"Hello, my name is Olivia Jones. I am 16 years old and am spending 5 months and a week in France with ICES study abroad program. I got placed in an amazing host family and I couldn't be happier.

So far on this trip I have learned so many new things. I've tried new foods and get to be immersed in a whole new culture. My exchange family and I do a variety of different things together. The dad (Sebastien) and I both run together, as he invited me to be a part of his running club and be included in races. We both run together throughout the week. The mom (Claire) and I play badminton together, and she is teaching me how to fish! With the siblings (Noa, and Lola) we go shopping, walk around the city, and spend a lot of time talking! Some things we all do together are play card games, go to different events, visit many new places, and watch tv.

In April my family and I are going to spend three days in Paris, and three days in Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy! They all welcomed me into their family with open arms and make me feel at home. Schools has also been an amazing experience, I have so many friends and feel so included in all the activities. I'm getting the opportunity to go on a school trip to England, and my French has already improved so much! 

I am so grateful to be placed in a host family that enjoys many of the things I do! I have been running a lot of my life and was really hoping to be able to run in France. My host dad (Sebastien) enjoys running which he does consistently. Sebastien and I run regularly every week together whether it’s tempo or long runs. I had my first race February 8th which was a seven-kilometer race with 300 people.  I placed first, winning a trophy, medal, and a rose! On February 23rd I had my second race which was 10 kilometers and 600 people. I placed first winning another trophy, and a t-shirt. I also qualified for France Championship, which is March 30th, in the department of Var, in the south of France. On March 2nd I had my third race which was 7 kilometers and a relay race. My team got third place, winning trophies!

I am so grateful for this opportunity and for many more races to come! Thank you ICES for giving me the chance to spend my semester abroad!!"

-Olivia Jones, California

Are you or someone you know a teenager interested in studying abroad? This is a fantastic opportunity to immerse in a new culture, learn a language, and gain a global perspective. International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) is offering an exciting spring promotion for students who want to study abroad for 90 days, a semester, or an entire academic school year.

For more information about our programs, visit: ICES STUDY ABROAD 

HELPFUL RESOURCES ON THE BLOG

Spring Break Adventures: Day Trips That Exchange Students Love

The Ultimate Study Abroad Packing List

How Are American Traditions Influenced by Global Cultures?

Exchange students come to experience American culture. But what do they find?  

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