Ein Land voller Möglichkeiten - Kulturaustausch in den USA

Jelena, one of our cultural exchange participants, writes to us from Townsend, a small town nestled in the heart of Tennessee, where she’ll be spending the next year. Here’s what she had to say about her experience so far.

I’m currently living in a little town called Townsend. For anyone who loves nature, it’s an absolute dream—surrounded by mountains and parks. I’m right next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which honestly feels unreal.

The views are breathtaking in every direction, and the area is always full of people coming for all sorts of outdoor activities the park has to offer. The host family I’m staying with welcomed me so warmly, and their kids are adorable—especially the baby, who I spend most of my time with. My first impressions have been overwhelmingly positive, even better than I expected. The parents are wonderful, the kids are polite and well-behaved, and the people in town are incredibly kind and friendly. Honestly, it’s been a perfect match.

Jelena has been spending most of her free time with the family and joining in on all kinds of activities.

On weekends, we play soccer with our friends, go hiking, watch movies… I’ve already memorized a bunch of trails in the park, so I go walking or jogging by myself almost every day. Since I don’t have my driver’s license yet, the family sets aside 30 to 45 minutes daily to help me practice and get ready for my driving test.

One of her favorite parts of the experience so far? The people.

What’s stood out the most is the culture of kindness here. Everyone—neighbors, people passing by on the street—is always friendly and welcoming. Before coming here, I imagined America as big cities and tall buildings, but this place has shown me it’s so much more than that.

Ihre Botschaft an künftige Bewerber?

Huge thanks to the agency for being so helpful and supportive in making this dream happen. To anyone thinking about joining this program: don’t hesitate, just go for it! America offers so many new experiences, friendships, and opportunities. You’ve got nothing to lose—so stop waiting and become part of something unforgettable.