My dreams truly came true

My dreams truly came true   My exchange year is the best experience of my life till now. There are many memories what I have made during my exchange year in the States, but the best were from Disneyworld, Orlando. My host family and I were spending a lot of time to prepare all things that we needed to have … Read More

6 ICES students are taking part in an international art project

6 ICES students are taking part in an international art project   The Hokkaido Pottery Society invited the Oregon Potters Association to join them in a collaborative art project involving youth. Students in grades 3-12 in Hokkaido and in the Pacific Northwest are creating ceramic sculptures that will be used to create 50 “Peace Poles” to be exhibited at the … Read More

My exchange so far in Argentina

My exchange so far in Argentina My journey started on February 9th when I left Oregon for Argentina. I had never been out of the country before, so I was very excited, and a little nervous. My first stop in South America was Santiago, Chile. That was completely nerve wracking for me because I knew very little Spanish, and almost … Read More

We have a relationship for life

We have a relationship for life   The time is running so fast. I can’t believe that my American adventure is already half way over. When I decided to do exchange I was excited but also little scared. Who would not be if he is so far from home? However, since the first minute here I loved it. It is … Read More

I’m literally living a dream

I’m literally living a dream   Hi, my name is Samara and I’m a 17 years old girl from Brazil. My experience in America has been amazing! I’m literally living a dream. Everyone knows that is hard get used to a new culture in another country especially when you’re “alone”, but I can tell for sure that all the struggles … Read More

Mardi Gras in Louisiana

Mardi Gras in Louisiana   During the month of February we celebrated Mardi Gras in Louisiana. Mardi Gras is a day of feasting and fun that precedes the 40 days of fasting before Easter. Some towns have a Courir Mardi Gras and some offer parades and dances. The students in Louisiana were able to sample different forms of Mardi Gras … Read More

Ellina you have made us better people by sharing your life with us

“Ellina you have made us better people by sharing your life with us”   Dear Ellina, Wow! It has been a year since you came to me on that cold, snowy night in January, 2017. Remember the array of stars and full moon shinning, lighting our path up the hill to my house. Pulling your huge suitcase, I often wonder … Read More

Unbelievable Experience in Minnesota!

Unbelievable Experience in Minnesota!   Could you tell how lucky I am? – Minnesota, not a really known state around the world. Cold, cloudy, snowy… but there it was, The Super Bowl LII. Philadelphia Eagles vs. New England Patriots, but pretty sad that the Vikings couldn’t make it… It has been a game that I always wanted to watch. I … Read More

We’re in the middle of something most people could only dream about

We’re in the middle of something most people could only dream about   It very clear to me that we’re all just searching for something “perfect”. Sadly, the pursuit of happiness, makes us blind. We forget how much we really have. I’m guilty myself. We start taking things for granted, because life’s filled with new and breathtaking opportunities. And these … Read More