Why did you want to participate in the foreign exchange student program?

The main reason was to improve my English. It turned out to be so important for the business world to speak English. That will give me good opportunities to get any job I want. However, I also wanted to have an experience, something special, like an adventure in my life. I wanted to meet another country, culture and other people.

Were you scared at first?

Oh, yes. Especially the last time before I actually made my way to the States. It is definitely a challenge to leave everything safe behind and go to a totally strange, new world. So I left my family, friends and home (my life) and started to build a new life.

How did you adjust to your American school?

Well, Americans are very positive and open-minded, but they also respect your privacy. Therefore, for every step I opened myself to someone, people gave something of themselves back to me. So I found friends. The school itself is very active with many after-school activities that I definitely used.

Did you take any English classes in Germany?

Yes, I took English for four years. It was my second language. I took French for eight years, and nevertheless I just hardly remember anything.

Did you participate in any school activities?

I participate in cross-country, school newspaper, indoor track, high-school musical, track and field, and choir.

Did you ever get to see your parents during your stay in America?

Yes, my parents and my older brother, Norman, visited me in March. However, I was really busy with track and musical, so I did not really see them a lot.

What cities did you visit?

I went to New York City twice and to California. There I visited San Clemente - where I stayed - L.A. and Hollywood, and San Diego - that's my favorite. In the summer, I also will go to South Carolina and Florida for a week with my family. I'm excited!

What are your hobbies?

I like almost any kind of sport and like watching it. In addition, I really like hanging out with family and friends. I'm pretty much open-minded for anything new as long as it is something active.

Was there anything that surprised you about American culture?

I thought it is a rumor that there are so many fast food restaurants. However, it turned out to be true! Americans are really, really nice and love to help. I enjoyed that a lot, and it made my year a lot easier.

What was your favorite moment of the school year?

Probably the snow days. And the first musical show on Friday. I was really nervous and so excited. I just loved it.

What was your least favorite moment of the year?

So far that didn't come yet. But I already know it will be the last day of school.

How do you like your American friends?

I don't like them; I love them. I'm going to miss them a lot. I'll miss joking around with them and just hanging out with them!

What are you are you going to miss about America?

I'm going to miss the kindness, the many family activities and the billions of cars everywhere.

Would you ever plan on coming back to visit?

I'll definitely come back. The main reason is my family. I love them a lot and am looking forward to staying with them for a little while.

What did you like about your American family?

Everything! They are perfect and like a real family. Sometimes I cannot believe I'm not their biological child. I'm very glad they chose me as their exchange student.