Meet Our Students

Maja is the recipient of the prestigious FLEX Scholarship. She describes herself as an open-minded, adventurous, energetic girl. Maja enjoys spending time outdoors and moving around as she feels it gives her energy. Since the age of four Maja has been skiing and she looks forward to the Winter every year because she knows she’ll get to ski. When she’s not outdoors Maja enjoys reading fantasy books and baking as a way to deal with stress. During her exchange year Maja would like to try new sports, maybe even cheerleading if your school allows it. She is looking forward to trying as many new things as possible and taking advantage of every chance that is given. Maja would love to share her Polish culture and cuisine with your family!

Flex Scholarship recipient Ulugbek describes himself as an ambitious, open minded, and sociable person. Ulugbek spends his time volunteering at the American Corner where he gives presentations on various topics like chess and professional development. In his free time Ulugbek enjoys reading a variety of books, his favorite author is James Clear. Because of his fondness of reading Ulugbek helps organize the books in the library at American Corner. Ulugbek is very helpful at home by helping in the garden, keeping his room clean, and taking out the trash daily. Ulugbek is eager to spend a year in the U.S. to learn more about the American culture and share with your family about his country and traditions. He looks forward to seeing you soon!

“This trip is close to my heart because I've been dreaming of it for a very long time. It brings together my desire to discover new cultures, to discover other ways of life, the traditions of other families, and of another country.” Anais is a bright, talented student from France who loves to laugh. Competing nationally in ice skating, she is driven and motivated, hoping to one day be a doctor. Anais loves all kinds of sports including dancing, surfing, and tennis. She loves riding bikes, playing board games, and beach volleyball with her family. Coaching young ice skaters and seeing them grow has been a source of joy, as has reading and discovering new cultures. From a mixture of cultures herself, Anais has also been learning Spanish since she was a young child. Her friends and family are super close, including her older brother who she really looks up to. Anais is so excited to experience life as a high schooler in America!

Louna is a bright, curious, friendly, and energetic student from France. In her words, Louna says “I really want to get out of my comfort zone, change my routine, and go on an adventure.” She loves sports, playing handball since she was 7, enjoys volleyball for the teamwork aspect, and surfing for the feeling of freedom out on the water. Louna also enjoys music, walks, cooking, laughing, and board games. She likes helping others so much that she became a Lifeguard and is first aid certified! Excited for lots of things in America, Louna mentioned getting to experience soccer games and the holidays here. Since she is so close to her mother, father, and sisters, she cannot wait to get to know you as well, making memories she believes will last a lifetime!

Opelia or Opho as her friends and family like to call her is a social girl who is always up for new conversations and hearing other perspectives. With her family Opho enjoys going on picnics or having coffee with the neighbors. She has a few responsibilities at home which include dishes, sweeping, and mopping. Opho loves reading self-development books because they inspire her to think positively and set meaningful goals. She’d be interested in joining a book club during her exchange year. She also has a passion for drawing and meditating. Opho is looking forward to being able to celebrate Halloween and Thanksgiving with your family, as she has always dreamed of experiencing them in person! Opho cannot wait to become a part of your family and share with you her Georgian and Armenian culture and dishes.

Meet Yerassyl, a 10th-grade student from a culturally rich and diverse city in Kazakhstan. Growing up in a family that cherishes togetherness and values, Yerassyl is the youngest among four siblings and the cherished favorite at home. His close-knit family shares a love for the Marvel Cinematic Universe and enjoys bonding over creative pursuits, such as painting and crafting stunning wall pictures. Despite his siblings pursuing their own paths—some married, others studying in different cities—Yerassyl remains a key pillar of his household, taking on responsibilities with diligence and care. Yerassyl’s multifaceted interests span across Taekwondo, football, and painting. He channels his passion for football by leading a school-founded football club alongside his close friends, breaking barriers of nationality and fostering enduring connections. His creative flair shines through his love for painting, and he aspires to carve a future as an interior designer, driven by a determination to build a portfolio that opens doors to prestigious universities. Hailing from one of the hottest cities in Kazakhstan, Yerassyl thrives in a melting pot of over 20 nationalities, including Kazakhs, Russians, Uzbeks, and Tatars. His city’s unique culture and stereotypes fuel his resilience and pride in its achievements. Yerassyl’s dreams extend beyond borders. Night after night, he envisions his life in the United States, where he hopes to participate in an exchange program that will help him realize his ambitions, forge lifelong friendships, and keep the flame of passion burning brightly. With a heart full of creativity and determination, Yerassyl is ready to bring colors, warmth, and innovation wherever he goes.

Diego is excited to come to America and share some of his Italian culture with you. He is the middle child of two brothers, and he is very close to his immediate family and extended family. Within his large family, he is considered to be very patient with his younger cousins. Living near the Sea, they spend a lot of time there together playing volleyball, handball, and tennis. He likes to play video games but is also very active as well. He plays competitive handball, where he trains several days a week and participates in competitions on the weekends. In his free time, you may find him skiing or swimming in the sea. He finds delight in cooking all kinds of Italian dishes, but he really hopes to show his American family the art of making classic Italian Pasta and introduce you to some of his favorite Italian pop music. He loves animals and in his own home he has a funny cat. He is excited to come to America and partake in all the culture, but also to bring his Italian culture to your family.

Oybek is a FLEX Scholarship student from Uzbekistan! He describes himself as an extrovert who enjoys football and debate. He established a Debate Club, where he practices public speaking and improvisation, and he co-founded the SpeakEasy Club to improve English and public speaking skills. He also serves as an IELTS Mock Speaking Examiner, helping others practice their speaking abilities. Oybek writes: “My friends would describe me as extroverted, energetic, goal-oriented, and a good conversationalist.” He said he wants to study economics or business management. He is allergic to orchard grass.

Sobir, a 16-year-old from Uzbekistan, believes his city is one of the most beautiful in the country. It's renowned for its traditional cuisine and the warm, welcoming nature of its residents. He stays active by engaging in various sports, including wrestling, swimming, and tennis. “Participating in sports has not only enhanced my physical strength but also allowed me to forge friendships and acquire valuable life skills,”. In addition, he enjoys playing chess and board games. Sobir took part in the English Language Olympiad, achieving first place at the city level and second place regionally. He shares a close bond with his family of five. His favorite pastimes include volunteer work and solving math problems. He views himself as a sociable individual who easily makes friends.

Meet Belle, a lovely 16-year-old, from Thailand. She lives at home with her grandmother, parents and her dog. Belle describes herself as friendly and humble. She likes to spend time with friends and family, help with chores and cook with family. She enjoys all types of activities. Sports and listening to music are two of her top favorites. She has played in the school band as well as participated in volleyball and basketball. She likes to stay active and engaged in the community. Belle writes, "I want to study subjects that are not available in Thailand, and I want to try activities that I have never done before..." She is excited to become a member of your family.