Giovanna (Gio) Rocha from Brazil explains how surprised she was with the amount of school spirit at Southeast Alamance. Gio clearly enjoys all that Southeast offers when it comes to spirit events. Photo by Lily Nye

by Lily Nye

This year our halls are more global with the addition of three exchange students. Southeast is welcoming more and more exchange students as last year there were in our halls as well (ARTICLE FROM 2025). The exchange students originate from Brazil, Italy and Germany. 

A program known as Bridge USA brings many international students are able to participate in this unique educational and cultural experience. Two of the new exchange students are open about their experiences adjusting to an American high school.

Meryem Aykut, and junior at Southeast from Italy with discussed her adaptation with the rules of a new school in a new country. Akyut said, “Something that really surprised me about American schools is how different some of the classroom rules are. For example, when a teacher enters the classroom, students don't have to stand up. Some teachers even let you eat in class. In Italy, both of those things would be unusual.” 

Exchange student, Giovanna (Gio) Rocha who originates from Brazil said, "[I was] surprised me how much school spirit there is here. I think it's really cool how students get so involved with sports, school events, and activities.” 

Evidently, there are many differences in student cultures across the globe. While experiencing a new culture can be very exciting, it doesn't go without its own challenges. Meryem shared that the hardest part of living here is the language. She finds herself not always being able to express herself due to English not being her first language. 

While exchange students' experiences are all unique, Gio answered similarly. Gio said, “The most challenging part has probably been speaking English all day. Even though I can communicate sometimes it's hard to find the right words.” 

Although the language barrier has been a challenge, it is one part of the exchange student experience. As the new students adapt to changes, they also see great things going on at Southeast.