All it takes is one glance at a calendar and we all come to the same realization: There is only one month left (and even less for some) until students start returning to their home countries!
As we "spring" into the final weeks of the school year, our students are finishing well and making the most of their exchange experiences here in the U.S.A. And many have chosen to leave a lasting mark for good as they finish their exchange year by helping others and encouraging their entire communities.
Let's check in and see what the last several months have been like for our students.
Students Making An Impact
More Than Words
When Benedetta Pasquinuzzi and Allana Graef decided to come to the U.S.A. as exchange students, they didn't realize that the one thing that might make the greatest impact on someone else during their exchange year is something they wouldn't pack in their suitcases. If you ever wonder if cultural exchange can really make an impact for good in the lives of others, this story is for you!
Milo being welcomed back to Pine City after 35 years
A photo from 2012 of the whole family, including Erik (Milo's father) from Germany and his son Milo
Like Father, Like Son
The headline reads "35 years later, exchange student finds home in father's old room".
"Generational hosting" isn't a term you hear mentioned very much, but in this case, there isn't a better phrase to describe what happened.
Exactly how did Milo (the son) and Erik (the Dad) end up staying with the same host family, 35 years apart? Click the link below to read the whole amazing story!
Romane Cauvin of France presented about France to her host brother's 3rd grade class at East Juniata Elementary School in Richfield, PA recently.
Host Mom, Deedre said, "Proud of Romane Cauvin for sharing about France with all of the EJES 3rd graders today! They had fun, learned a lot, and tasted a yummy chocolate croissant. It’s so good for us to see a different perspective and way of life. We not only learn more about others, as we grow in perspective we also learn more about ourselves. Thank you, Romane!"
"Host State" Valentines Photo Contest
Our Valentine's Day photo contest question this year was simple; "What do you love most about your host state?" And the responses (over 75!) sent from 26 states proved that this years students love their host states!
Our very own Eva S. from Germany was chosen as one of the honorable mention artists in this years CSIET Art Cover competition! Check out her wonderful work of art below.
"Thank you so much to all who participated in the 21st Annual CSIET Art Cover Contest! With over 200 submissions, it was extremely difficult to decide who would win this year's contest. There is so much talent amongst the international exchange students, and we appreciate the time and effort students put in to creating their art work and entering this contest. Congratulations to all!" With Gratitude, CSIET Board of Directors and Staff
Go Warriors!
Former ICES student Laia Albas Ferrar got signed with Rochester College to play basketball for The Warriors! She was a student with the Gates family (pictured with Laia on signing day) in Dimondale, MI in 2021. On her social media page, she announced:
"Pleased to announce my commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at Rochester University. First of all, I would like to thank my parents and family for taking me to endless games and tournaments. Likewise, thank you to coach Wichtner, coach Lemm and all their coaching staff for giving me this wonderful opportunity and for letting me be a part of their amazing program. Last but not least, I appreciate all my friends and coaches who have supported me and encouraged me throughout the process, especially coach Kutas, not only in basketball but also in life. Rochester University, absolutely a destination."
Congratulations Laia, and thank you to Nick and Danielle Gates for not only opening their home and hearts to an exchange student, but for being a part of opening Laia's future as well.
The ICES Blog is in Full Bloom
Students of the Month - April
This month, it is our pleasure to recognize not just one Student of the Month… but to shine a light on our ICES StudentS of The Month.
We love to see all the adventures you and your exchange students are enjoying. Share your fun photos with us and you'll likely see them pop up on our social media, blog, or newsletter.
Send us your favorite photos at stories@icesusa.org. Please include student's name & home country and the host family's name and home state.
International Cultural Exchange Services, 375 N. Stephanie Street, Bldg. 16, Henderson, Nevada 89014, United States, Toll-Free within USA: 1-800-344-3566 Call from outside USA: +1 434-993-1973
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