Hamilton area exchange students are going to have a mid-year meeting on January 19 to check their progress and set new goals for the second half of the year. Dustin Hanlin, Indiana state exchange students’ coordinator will lead the future event for 39 exchange students.

“All students achieved a great success. They became more independent and learned how to manage money. Most realized what it means to be considerate of others.”

According to Hanlin first five months of being on exchange are the hardest.

“Most of the students faced language and homesick problems. However they really did great in integration into the American society.”

Alesya Mahmudova, exchange student from Azerbaijan and senior, says that she found her second home in the US.

“I love being here. My life is good. Every day is full of new openings. I have only five months left and I really don’t want to think about going back.”

Nevertheless being an exchange student isn’t always fun. For many students it’s a big problem to find enough time for their new and natural families.

According to Mahmudova for her it’s really hard to manage time.

“Sometimes I feel terrible homesick. It’s really hard for me to communicate with my naturally family and friends, because of 9 hours time difference. ”

Despite all difficulties most of the students are happy with their new life and ready for the second half.

“Right now I couldn’t imagine how would my life be without being here”, Mahmudova said. “I have a lot of plans for the second half of the year and I don’t want to waste my time on homesick.”