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

December is a wonderful time full of celebration and excitement. Continuing the tradition of celebrating students, we are happy to announce our two December Students in Action; Evelyn (Yiling) Yao and Calvin Chen. Read on to find out more about these amazing young students.

Evelyn (Yiling) Yao
Archbishop Ryan High School; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

What do you most like about being an international student?

I really enjoy living with my host family. They care about my study progress and support my activities and academic plans.

How is your host city different than your hometown?

There are a few major differences between my hometown and my current host city. Of the differences, there are two that really stand out. The people here are more active than my hometown and there are not many tall city buildings here.

What is your favorite subject in school?

School is so much different here than my hometown; even though I am learning math and other things I seem to prefer sports the best.

What do you like best about your school?

This town is so much smaller than my hometown, so there are a lot less students. It’s easier to get to know people and I prefer it that way.

What is your favorite activity outside of school?

I am a very active person and truly enjoy fencing; it’s quite a difficult technique to learn but highly enjoyable.

Calvin Chen
The First Academy; Orlando, Florida

What do you most like about being an international student?

I love being an international student; and despite how much I am enjoying my experience so far, I have to say that I really enjoy being with my host family. They make really good food that I love to eat and are actually really nice to me.

How is your host city different than your hometown?

There are so many differences between my hometown and my host city; but of all the differences that I’ve noticed so far, the biggest one is that there are way less skyscrapers in Orlando than my hometown.

What is your favorite subject in school?

I am enjoying my studies at school. I can’t imagine choosing just one subject as my favorite.

What do you like best about your school?

I love that my school is so diverse; there are so many different types of kids and they all have so many great ideas to teach me.

What is your favorite activity outside of school?

Oh my gosh! I totally love playing badminton and shopping!

Congratulations again to these wonderful students and all that they have accomplished while residing in the United States. We wish them the best of luck in all their endeavors. Stay tuned to see who we showcase for next month’s international students.

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