Student Overcomes Homesickness By Embracing Program

Getting homesick is something that many of our exchange students go through. It is a very common and understandable feeling. Our Star Student of the Month experienced being homesick, but made sure not to let the feeling keep him from participating to his fullest in the program down in Missouri! Read all about what Community Representative Tina Rogers has to say about Mohammad, who goes by Harry, from the Philippines!

“I would like to brag about one of our exceptional exchange students. Harry comes from the Philippines and from a very large family. He has adapted well to his new family. He is the only child in the host family as their son is grown; I am sure this was a significant change. Harry is always looking at the positive side of everything that he encounters, whether it be family, school, sports or community events.

He acknowledged that he was homesick. He understood why but he didn’t want it to affect his experience...

A good example of his ability to keep positive was when his brother recently got married and Harry became homesick because he wasn’t there. He acknowledged that he was homesick. He understood why but he didn’t want it to affect his experience so he didn’t let it stop him from participating in activities going on at school, in the community and at home. This helped him overcome the feeling of being home sick. He always has a smile and is very respectful to his host family, teachers, and friends. Another exchange student asked Harry who his best friend was; his reply was ‘My Host Dad!’ The other student then asked, ‘Why? He is old!!’ Harry replied, “My host dad is there for me, he is always available if I need to talk or if I need anything.” Harry did not understand why age would have an impact on who a friend should be.

My host dad is there for me, he is always available if I need to talk or if I need anything.

I have spoken to his host parents and they agree, Harry really is embracing the program. His host mom is teaching him to cook. His host dad is teaching him about farming and motors. I have never seen Harry when he did not have a very positive attitude and was willing to try something new.

He is also one of the first to offer to help at our school events and is always actively helping people. Teachers have approached me several times just to tell me how much they like having Harry in their classes and that he is extremely focused on his academics.

He is such a joy to be around! He truly is an ambassador for his country and an AWESOME, all around wonderful young man. We are very proud he has come to be a part of our community!”