Being a new student presents an abundance of adjustment and difficulty, especially when the newness occurs in high school; however, being a foreign exchange student is even more of a challenge.

For junior, Saskia Bacher, her journey to the big state of Texas from Germany marks a world of difference.

“The cars, the houses, the streets are a lot bigger, but I really like it,” Bacher said. “The clothes are different, the schools are bigger, [and] they have different rules. In Germany, we’re not allowed to have our phones in class, but here you can.”

The real challenge for most of the foreign exchange student is the removal from their family. Being away from them can be tough; however, they are not alone. They have a host family they stay with for the school year.

“I really miss my family, but I don’t cry or anything… I do FaceTime them every once in awhile. I get to see them at the end of the school year,” Bacher said. “I love my host family I’m staying with; they’re nice and caring.”

In regards to the reasoning behind her global transition to a whole new country, Bacher faces the fear of the unknown both culturally and linguistically with courage.

“I became a student because I love to travel, love learning new things, especially the language,” Bacher said. “My English is not good but I’m still learning and just more excited to learn more,” Bacher said.

As Saskia Bacher is in her sixth  week being here in Texas, she is really loving the lifestyle and is ready to move forward in her junior year.

“The school is great and I really like it here,” Bacher said.