Each month we provide a coast to coast snapshot of some of our students in action!

2018 is shaping up to be an amazing year; the weather is changing and we are moving steadily along towards Spring Break. Moving forward, we are restructuring our newsletter a bit by showcasing just one student per month; allowing us to highlight our most amazing young learners individually. Read on to learn more about this month's wonderful international student!

Student Name: Yan Zhe

City/State: Riverhead, NY

Grade Level/School: Bishop McGann-Mercy

What do you most like about being an international student?

I love everything about being an international student. The thing that makes it easier to do my best as a student is having the support I need from my host family; they are very kind to me and I really like them.

How is your host city different than your hometown?

I would describe it as more of a town, rather than a city. The host town where I stay for schooling is a tranquil and fair place. People enjoy a slower pace here and have plenty of time to develop their interests. However, in my hometown, people are more concerned about the work efficiency and do not have the chance to slow down and enjoy their lives.

What is your favorite subject in school?

I don’t have one particular favorite subject in school but that’s ok...since I like them all!

What do you like best about your school?

I like learning, for me it helps me feel like I am growing and doing my best. But I also love hanging out with my friends too.

What do you like best about your host family?

I would say their personalities! Nowadays, more and more people only care about themselves. Few of them would like to spend their time helping others. My host  family members typically use their spare time to serve those in need. For instance, buying a new jacket for a boy who is from a poor family that cannot afford warm clothing for him in the winter. Besides serving food to the hungry and donating clothes, I love that they enjoy making chocolates for friends and parties.

What is your favorite activity outside of school?

I love playing soccer and I joined the soccer team at school again this year. Soccer teaches me a lot about life. It is not simply twenty-two people chasing a soccer ball trying to score against the other team. For me it is a reflection of real life. For instance, similar to life, the situation on the field will rapidly change in a split second and you never know what will happen next. You can do nothing but keep working harder. Soccer inspires me to make my life better when it gets tougher and tougher.

Congratulations again to our wonderful student and all that he has accomplished while residing in the United States. We wish him the best of luck in all his endeavors. Stay tuned to see who we showcase for next month’s international students.

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