This school year Carlota Vazquez, LHS junior, came from Madrid, Spain to the States to get a chance at the “American experience.”

Vazquez has parts of life that have been similar on a day-to-day basis but there are also many contrasts she has noticed within culture and societal norms. The way people act and how schools are run can have a very different feel from at times than what she is used to in Spain. In order to get to the U.S., Vazquez had to get in touch with an agency for foreign exchange students. She also had to score high enough on an English literacy test to be eligible. 

When first wanting to come here, Vazquez was looking to better know the culture and everything that goes into being a teenageer in America. She started experimenting with new experiences like school sports, activities and going out with friends, to fulfill some of the expectations that she was looking forward to. 

“It was surprising to me how school and sports are so connected and both are important,” said Vazquez.

Vazquez’s favorite time spent here has been at football games as it is an aspect that only America consists of and an experience she has only seen from an outside perspective. Other than events like football games, being able to meet new people and getting to know new friends better has been another highlight of her experience so far. 

“I will definitely miss the people and the lifestyle,” said Vazquez. 

Similar to anyone who is spending a whole school year away from family and hometown friends, there are moments that Vasquez feels homesick. In Spain, Vazquez is used to spending a lot of time studying on the weekdays along with dance classes in the evening. On weekends, her time is spent with friends and family going out to the centre of the city, while still keeping up on homework. 

“It’s been hard being away from my family and friends and having to learn everything and talk [in] English all the time,” said Vazquez. 

As the school year is over halfway done, Vazquez is sad to realize that her time in America is going to come to a close in not too long. She is grateful for her experiences and all the people she has had the chance to meet.