My name is Gulbadanbegim, and I’m an exchange student from Uzbekistan who’s currently studying at Rockbridge County High School. This is my first and last year here, since I’m leaving for my home country by the end of this school year. It has been such an exciting year filled with new adventures and valuable connections. In this article, I’d like to share some highlights of my exchange year.

   Despite having so many memorable events throughout the year, my favorite one was definitely Homecoming. In Uzbekistan, we don’t usually have such events, so it was very exciting to experience something new and just have fun with my friends. After watching American movies, I dreamed of getting asked to a Homecoming Dance with a poster just like in the movies. And, apparently, my dream came true.

     Another celebration which was new to me was celebrating Halloween. Most Uzbeks don’t celebrate this holiday because of their religious beliefs and often view it as a non-traditional celebration. However, since I promised

myself to say “yes” to everything new during my exchange year, I dressed up for it and went trick-or-treating with my friends. In fact, I found myself enjoying the celebration. I was amazed how people put so much effort into decorating their houses, and as a result, they looked very cool and spooky. My favorite part was definitely collecting so many candies and basically having a sugar coma. 

     In addition to those, my cross-country and swim teams hold a special place in my heart. I think doing sports helped me not only keep physically fit, but also helped adjust quicker to American life and make valuable connections. I really enjoyed doing both of those sports, and my coaches were really nice and professional. Besides, it was satisfying to see personal progress through the seasons.

     I also want to include our road trips with my host family to the list of my highlights. When I first arrived in the United States, which was in August, my host mother took me to Chincoteague Island. It was a unique trip because it was my first time seeing the ocean. Uzbekistan is a double landlocked country which means citizens would have to cross at least two countries to get access to an ocean. It was a whole rollercoaster of emotions, and it was unforgettable to see wild ponies and dolphins. 

     In addition to that, our trip to Niagara Falls was very exciting as well. The plan was to see as many states as possible on our way, and we managed to see 11 of them! It was pretty awesome to see differences and similarities between all those states because each of them were unique in their own way. I’ll definitely remember those trips filled with so many incredible memories.      

     I think my exchange experience has shaped me in many ways. I became more mature and tolerant. To be honest, my first two weeks were a bit overwhelming since everything was new; however, I’m glad I was brave enough to step out of my comfort zone and travel here. I’ve met so many nice people throughout the year, and we made so many unforgettable memories. 

    I’m still not ready to look from the plane window and say goodbye to a place which has become home to me. Besides, leaving all my friends and host family behind will be so devastating (especially my cat here). Despite all of that, I knew that this day would come eventually when I committed to do an exchange year. However, I’m excited to see my natural parents too! 

    Exchange year is always an unforgettable experience in every exchange student’s life. Once it’s finished, they will step into a new chapter in their lives. Just like them, I’ll graduate from my Asian school once I return and I’ll apply for colleges. I’m excited!