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

September brings a new school year and with that new experiences for our international students. Each month we will continue to showcase two wonderful students. This month we are happy to announce our Students in Action: JJ Ji and Xianze Gao.

JJ Ji
The Prout School, Wakefield, Rhode Island

What do you most like about being an international student?

My host town is way smaller than the city I come from; and it’s super quiet. This is one of the reasons that I love being here. The weather is always lovely and it only takes a few minutes to walk to the beach where I can relax after my school work.

What is your favorite subject in school?

My favorite subject in school so far this year is psychology.

What do you like best about your school?

I am used to bigger schools, so I definitely think it’s nice being at a small school. It’s great for peer and teacher communication because everyone knows each other. A small school also makes me feel like I’m more at a home than an actual school.

What is your favorite activity outside of school?

I enjoy playing all kinds of sports, but soccer is my favorite sport activity outside of school.

Xianze Gao
The First Academy, Orlando FL

What do you most like about being an international student?

I have a love for education. Learning is important to me and I understand the reason why we need to always be learning. Studying in America is my most favorite thing about being an international student. I enjoy learning new things and growing.

How is your host city different than your hometown?

The main difference between my hometown and the city that I live in now is that I have a new family. Back in my hometown I don’t really have parents, so having a family is new to me. I love living with my new family and am enjoying having people to talk to and share my life with.

What is your favorite subject in school?

By far my most favorite subject in school is music. I love how it makes me feel inside.

What do you like best about your school?

What isn’t there to like? I love everything about my school.

What is your favorite activity outside of school?

The activity I like most outside of school would have to be sports; all kinds. I love being active.

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