International Students Enter the Tank

By: Ariana Foreman

October 7, 2024

Elisa Briand: 

   Elisa Briand, 10th, is a new student in the shark tank that came from France. It is her first time being an exchange student in the US. However, it is not her first time visiting the US, as she has been to New York and Florida many times. She has not had any trouble trying to adjust because she has been prepared and her host family has been supportive and welcoming towards her. Briand has been enjoying her time at the shark tank saying,  

   “I really love it here I love the ambience and the fact that everyone is friendly.” 

   She has said that “it has not been difficult at all to make new friends,” and has already started a small friend group, that has been gradually growing throughout the weeks. 

   Briand runs for the Shark Tank’s cross-country team and is planning to join the track team after the season ends. She says that “running is the best thing ever.” Briand loves to run on the track or around her neighborhood in her free time. It is a committed hobby of hers, and she would like to continue this passion for as long as possible.  

   “I’ve always had a passion for running,” she tells, “it is enjoyable and easy. I honestly recommend it to someone who wants to try out a sport for their first time.” 

   On her free time as home, Briand enjoys reading many books, playing many kinds of board games, and watching movies comfortably with her host family. 

Jannatul Mawya: 

   Jannatul Mawya, 9th, came from Bangladesh over to the US as an exchange student. This is her first time being an exchange student, and her first time coming to the US entirely.  

   “I was a little nervous at first, meeting new people and especially getting used to coming home to a different family.” She speaks. “But everyone here turned out to be nicer than I imagined. The teachers are cool and aren’t mean.” 

   Mawya says that it wasn’t difficult to make new friends, and that it was easy to adjust to the customs and cultures of the US. She says, 

   “I feel like I was able to adjust comfortably with the help of my friends and host family.” 

   She also enjoys reading a little and hanging out with her new friends and family in her free time.