This week Sahuaro High School had the exciting opportunity to welcome a group of South Korean exchange students. To help everyone connect, the school hosted an event during second period on Monday, February 10th. The students from both cultures shared their experiences and perspectives. Link Crew members assisted as translators and guides, while school administrators including the principal and vice principal, and staff from Tucson Korea Ambassador Program (KTAP) attended to support the event. The gathering gave students a chance to learn about each other’s traditions and cultures.
First Impressions
One of the first topics discussed was the striking differences in daily life between the U.S. and South Korea. Many of the exchange students were amazed by the friendliness and outgoing nature of the American students. They were also captivated by the Arizona landscape, particularly the Saguaro Cacti and the huge trees. As one Link Crew member translated for an exchange student, “The trees here are much larger!”
School policies, especially regarding technology, were another major topic. In South Korea, students are not allowed to use cellphones at all during school hours which is very different from American high schools, where phone policies vary from teacher to teacher. The assistant principal and Mrs. Bradley, the Link Crew sponsor, commented, “In [their] schools, phones are not allowed at all, but here, some students can use them.”
Fashion was another noticeable difference. Exchange students observed that American students dress far more casually than South Korean students. One Link Crew member translated for an exchange student, “I was surprised by how girls dress here. It’s very different.”
Favorite Experiences So Far
During the event, students shared their favorite experiences since arriving in Tucson. A highlight for one student was trying American fast food: “I liked KFC. The spicy sandwich was my favorite,” one student. Others talked about enjoying the desert scenery.
Principal Estrella encouraged the exchange students to enjoy Tucson’s natural beauty by visiting the Saguaro National Park. He also mentioned, “I wish they were here during football season. It’s such a big part of the high school experience.”
Building Connections Through Cultural Exchange
This event was more than just a discussion – it was an opportunity to build friendships and understanding between cultures. By the end of the event, both local and exchange students gained valuable insights into each other’s ways of life. The exchange program was not only an educational experience but also a meaningful way to form cross-cultural connections and impact people’s lives in a meaningful way.
Events like this demonstrate how Sahuaro High School continues to embrace diversity and encourage students to broaden their horizons beyond their own culture.
