The concept of foreign exchange students is not widely considered in our ordinary society in the United States. But over 1.1 million international students study in the United States. From 2024, there will be a 7 percent increase in international students in America.

Back in the 1990s and early 2000s, foreign exchange students were very common in all public schools in America, but over the years, they have become less visible and less discussed in our society.

International students come to study abroad in America for a variety of reasons, from academic excellence, career opportunities and advanced job prospects to cultural diversity. The United States is a huge destination for international students from all over the world.

Max Jurga, a foreign exchange student from the country of Germany. He explains the difference in culture from living in Germany and from living in the US, stating,“ The people in America are super nice and friendly. I think the biggest culture shock is the number of different cultures and different people everywhere coming from different countries and areas coming together.”

The foreign process can be unique at times. From the English test to the process and waiting game. Picking where you are living for an extended period of time can be a complicated process.

Jurga establishes “Before you can look at studying foreign exchange, you need to take an English test to make sure you have a base level of the language in the States, knowing a base level of the language, finding a place can be a little difficult from applying, to have interviews in exams, but after all that it becomes a relief coming to the state building a new life”.

Lucienne Duong, a former exchange student at Wilsonville High School, explains the importance of foreign exchange, stating,” It is important to have a place with different cultures and people. Studying in a foreign environment is important because school is different, and you study different things, so it’s interesting to see different perspectives of the world and study different things”.

Over the years in the United States, there have been criticisms as to why there are fewer foreign exchange students. Some argue that foreign exchange has decreased because of factors such as increasing costs, rising difficulties, securing visas, and getting into the United States.

“The American Dream” is a phrase used to describe life in America in many generations of the United States from the perspective of different countries around the world, from the bustling cities to the endless opportunities.

Duong reflects on the American dream of living in Germany

Stating, “

A huge impact for foreign exchange students after spending time is personal development and a sense of community. Students wouldn’t envision themselves being interested in or apart in.

Duong points out,” Americans are proud of the sports, high schools, and cities they live in, wearing shirts. There are many different sports and different activities, and being able to have lots of free time outside of school is very different from Germany, but it’s unique.”

Overall, foreign exchange is not only positive for the students, but also the community, embracing different diversities and cultures, making relationships and new opportunities for many students around the world.