Can you feel it? The air’s getting cooler, the leaves are changing, and it’s finally that time of year when high school hits differently. Fall means football games, homecoming hype, bonfires, and way too much pumpkin spice (no shame!). It’s also when things start clicking—new classes feel a little easier, clubs and sports are in full swing, and friendships start to feel like family. This season is all about making the most of every moment, so dive in, get involved, and make those memories that’ll stick with you long after this year’s over.

STUDENT OF THE MONTH

This month, we're excited to recognize Beatrice, who is living with the Richardson family in Beckley, West Virginia, as our Student of the Month! Beatrice has truly exemplified the spirit of an exchange student, not only excelling academically but also showing incredible kindness and dedication to her community.

Recently, Beatrice spent her weekend volunteering to help victims of Hurricane Helene. From gathering donations to cleaning flood-damaged homes and comforting families, her selflessness and compassion were inspiring. She chose to help when she could have spent time with friends, and her actions made a lasting impact on those she assisted.

As our Student of the Month, Beatrice will receive a certificate of achievement, a letter of recommendation from ICES President John Crist, and a $100 Giftogram.  Congratulations, Beatrice! We're so proud of you! Keep shining!

LOOKING AHEAD

To view available students, contact your Local Coordinator or go to https://www.icesusa.org/meet-our-students/ 

ADVENTURE TIME!

It's truly amazing to see such a diverse group of students from all over the world—Italy, Spain, Germany, Denmark, and Kazakhstan—all coming together in Montana to explore the beauty of Grotto Falls, followed by a relaxing soak in Norris Hot Springs.

Meanwhile, our exchange students from Ohio, West Virginia, and Virginia embarked on a thrilling adventure to Niagara Falls, New York, adding yet another incredible chapter to their American journey.

A huge thank you to all the ICES team members and volunteers who go above and beyond, generously donating their time and efforts to create unforgettable experiences for exchange students from across the globe! Your dedication makes these moments possible, helping students make memories that will last a lifetime.

AROUND THE WORLD

We recently checked in with Sydney from Texas, one of our study abroad students currently in Norway. She shared an insightful essay that beautifully captures her experiences and personal growth throughout her journey abroad.

"Hello, I am doing an exchange year in Norway. I have an incredible host family with two host sisters around my age and we get along great even though I was really worried about that with me being an only child and only ever living with my parents. There are also two brothers but they are in their twenties. I also have met both sets of grandparents and they are so kind and welcoming. 

In school I am taking classes like math, English, history, biology, physics, social economics, Norwegian and my favorite part gym only once a week. The classes are in 90 minute blocks and have 3 to 4 classes a day. The school I go to is so amazing but I am switching schools for the convenience of me and my host family. The test day at my new school was so much better than I expected and I can’t wait to start. Also, my youngest host sister goes to school there so we can take the train together and it is an opportunity to grow closer.

I have not really felt homesick since the first day of school. That has been my hardest day of the almost two months I have been here. I was really overwhelmed by not knowing where to go as I was dropped at the train station and told to wait two stops then get off. That day also marked the longest I have ever been away from my parents so it was an emotional day all around. But after I got over my initial fear my day improved so much. I made wonderful friends that I will miss so much when I switch schools but hope that we will still hang out outside of school."

HELPFUL RESOURCES ON THE BLOG

10 Ways to Help Your Exchange Student Make Friends

What’s one of the biggest challenges for exchange students? Making friends in a brand-new environment.

Exploring Fall Holidays in the United States

It's that time of year when crisp autumn air begins to sweep through the country, and cafes serve their signature pumpkin spice drink.

Why Your Exchange Student Should Keep a Journal (And How You Can Help)

Hosting a high school exchange student is an exciting, rewarding experience, filled with new adventures and challenges. 

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