With one thing central thing in common, the study of each others’ national language, teens in the exchange welcome each other into their homes and lives for two weeks to learn more than Spanish or English classes can provide.

Upper School Spanish teacher Rafaela Salido said that “From what I’ve seen, [the exchange] is one of the most memorable things they do in high school … I think they gain in every aspect, not only academically but as a person.”

Host students are not the only ones who benefit from the experience: the 24 students from Colegio Malvar were officially welcomed to St. Paul Academy and Summit School on Sept. 14. During assembly, they shared a video about their village just outside Madrid.

“I hope to give my exchange student a good time here, make him feel comfortable, and let him have a taste of American culture” -Erik Quillopa

Host participants met for the first time when the Spanish students arrived on campus the afternoon of Sept. 13. Participants were given contact information for the person they’re hosting beforehand and many have kept in touch via texting and email over the summer.

Junior Sara Bojhanen said she chose to participate in the exchange because it feels more fullfilling. “I wanted to show [my exchange student] American culture and clear up misconceptions,” Bohjhanen said. She states that her favorite part about the exchange has been building a relationship with the Spanish students, and hopes to continue those relationships after this year.

Sophomore Erik Quillopa decided to participate in the Spanish exchange after volunteering in Spain as a freshman and enjoying the sightseeing and Spanish cuisine. “I hope to give my exchange student a good time here, make him feel comfortable, and let him have a taste of American culture,” he said.

Most host students will go to Spain to stay with a host family over Spring Break in March: “[We’ll both] see more of what every day life is like as a student [in another country],” Quillopa said.

The students who participate in this exchange not only learn to act as hosts and manage time better, but also “become teachers, teaching and being ambassadors of our culture, our class, and our country,” Salido said.

Check out the RubicOnline for more information about the merits of language exchanges and former Spanish exchanges.