Article by Phoenix writer Isabel Connolly ’23:
In the modern digital age, people are more connected to the global community than ever before. However, no piece of technology compares to face-to-face interaction. That is why Kellenberg junior Jiovhannah James decided to open her home to host a foreign exchange student. Jisoo, a sixteen year old student from South Korea, is currently staying with Jiovhannah and her family as part of the International Exchange Program or ISE.
Jiovhannah was actually the one to introduce her family to the program and her parents were very supportive. She researched and chose to host Jisoo after looking through her personal bio. Jiovhannah and her family did not meet Jisoo prior to hosting her but were eager to meet her. Jiovhannah noted that Jisoo was a little shy at first but very nice and thrilled to be staying with them.
While Jisoo is currently attending Uniondale High School, Jiovhannah has still introduced Jisoo to several of her Kellenberg friends, inviting her to school football games and birthday parties.
To better connect with Jisoo, Jiovhannah has shared a number of fun activities and gifts to help her remember her time in the United States. In return, Jisoo has introduced Jiovhannah to aspects of her culture, gifting Korean soap and bookmarks. She even introduced Jiovhannah and her family to some of her favorite meals from home. They continue to teach each other new words in their native languages and Jiovhannah noted she was very eager to learn more about Jisoo and her culture.
Jiovhannnah decided to participate in this program because she wanted to reach out and help a student from across the globe and share their cultures. She also believes the experience is very eye-opening, with the realization there are so many different languages and cultures yet to be explored.
Jiovhannah noted, “Building a bond with someone outside of your own culture lets you be more open to trying new things and embracing yourself. You may end up with a lifelong friend who will remember even the small kind things you did for them.” She believes she has formed a close, sisterly bond with Jisoo. She and her family are very excited to visit Jisoo in Korea and meet her family after she leaves in June.
Jiovhannah and Jisoo have clearly experienced the rewards of opening up your global perspective, introducing each other to their respective cultures and forming a bond that will last a lifetime.