On August 15, a big adventure started for me: my exchange year at Hamburg Area High School. On the very first day, I was full of excitement but also a little nervous. The hallways all looked the same, and I felt like I was walking through a maze. The only way for me to find my way was by following the door numbers.
What really impressed me was how helpful and friendly the students were. Many times classmates offered to walk me to my next class. This kindness made my start here so much easier. The teachers also welcomed me warmly, and I quickly felt comfortable and accepted.
One big difference compared to my school in Germany is that here the students change classrooms, while in Germany the teachers usually move from class to class. Instead of only looking at the differences, in my first weeks I noticed most of all the atmosphere: open, friendly, and curious. My favorite subjects so far are Art because I enjoy the creative work and calm atmosphere in the classroom, and American Cultures, where I can learn more about traditions and daily life in the US. Both classes give me a chance to see things from a new perspective and experience something I would not have in Germany.
I live with the Hess family who I already knew from the German-American exchange in October last year. At that time, I immediately felt comfortable and at home with them, almost like being part of their family. That is why I was really looking forward to coming back. It was a great feeling to return to a familiar home at the beginning of this big adventure, and it made the adjustment much easier.
The reason why I chose to do this exchange year is simple: I want to experience what American school life is really like, learn more about the culture, and improve my English. I also hope to make new friends and collect memories that will stay with me for life.
My conclusion after three weeks: the beginning was exciting and sometimes a little overwhelming, but now I feel truly arrived. I am looking forward to the coming month and to discovering many more small and big differences between German and American school life.
