What is your experience with the German program at this school? How did you become interested in it?

This actually happened when I was in sixth grade. Sixth grade was a really difficult time for me and I really wanted to pick a unique language instead of Spanish or French. I took German because my sister took it and she inspired me to definitely become a speaker in that language. Made me really be motivated to learn more about the culture and new experiences that Germany as a country offers and the language does too. 

Why did you decide to travel for the exchange program?

It is a very unique experience and it is really good for colleges to see you have unique experiences in a different country, which not many schools offer and it is a very big part of this program, how it offers a very grand scale impact on how you learn a new language and how you can embrace different cultures aside from your own identity. 

Who did you stay with and how did you get to know them?

I stayed with a student named Simon, but in German it’s  pronounced as Zee-mon. I really liked hanging out with him. He was basically like me but in a German version. He was a really nice guy and we also hung out all the time. He definitely made me a better person overall. 

What was the experience like as an exchange student?

When (Simon) came to Carmel, we gave him tours like Monument Circle and all those touristy areas in Indianapolis. We took him to a Pacers game and that was really fun. It was just really cool how different cultures embrace other identities. That they are not familiar with, and I think that is a really cool part about this trip.

What aspects of your culture were you most excited to share? What most surprised you about German culture?

I am actually originally from India. I really wanted to show (Simon) my Indian side as well. I wasn’t born here; I was born there, and (I) showed him all types of Indian food that I used to grow up eating. We actually got him to eat that, and it was really cool that he enjoyed it. I was happy that he at least tried it, even though he didn’t like most of it. 

What was the hosting experience like? Any favorite moments or highlights you’d like to share?

My favorite moment with him was definitely a Halloween party. We also played this game called Hostage which is like a fun game with another friend group of mine. We invited a couple of exchange students to play with us. It was really fun and it was a late-night game and it was really fun. 

Do you have any advice for students who are looking to be an exchange student themselves, or families looking to host an exchange student?

Honestly, don’t be afraid. Like, that is the main advice I give. Also, think about what it could offer, like, what unique experiences it could offer. Don’t hesitate if you want to commit to it and don’t back out of it. 

Will you be pursuing an exchange program or another language immersion program in the future? 

I hope to get a program for Dutch because it is a really similar language to German. I currently fall under B2 which shows relatively high proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing. I really want to learn that new language. It again offers those same unique experiences in German, even though it has slight varieties within it.