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5 things to do during your year abroad in the US

When you go to the US for your year abroad, you won’t just learn about another culture and discover new sides of yourself – there are also tons of things to see and do. In addition to the trips to places like California and Hawaii that will be offered to you as an exchange student in the US, we’ve got five more tips for things to do while you’re there.

Visit famous landmarks and cities

Take the chance to visit the biggest, most famous city in the US: New York! You’ll find the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the 9/11 Memorial, and the Empire State Building. Cities like Miami and Washington, D.C. might also be on your must-visit list.

Christmas displays in New York

We’re sure you’ve seen it in the movies: shimmering store windows with colorful decorations, red bows decorating street lights, choirs singing carols on street corners, and snowy trees in Central Park. Now you can see it in person! Shopping and Christmas displays are really something else during the holidays, and it’s basically essential to walk down Fifth Avenue and see how famous department stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue try to out-shine one another in the unofficial competition for most beautiful Christmas display.

Check out an American football game

As the national sport of the US, football truly brings Americans together. Take part and support your friends on the field while cheerleaders cheer on the team with choreography.

Try something new

Take the chance to try something new while you’re in the US. You can try sandboarding on North America’s tallest sand dunes in Colorado, throw horseshoes and eat free popcorn during Nebraska’s Popcorn Days, or explore 1.6-hectares of books at Powell’s City of Books in Oregon.

Visit at least one of the 63 national parks in the US

The US designated its first national park in 1872 and today, there are 63 national parks spread across 30 states. Each one has its own special traits, but here are a few of the best parks to visit. Which ones look the most intriguing to you?

Yosemite National Park in California, with its Instagram-worthy natural scenery, is at the top of lists of the best national parks in the US. At Yosemite, you can go camping, explore great hiking trails, and see the tallest waterfall in North America. Don’t miss the Tunnel View viewpoint!
Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona is one of the most famous national parks in the US, and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. This national park has tons of hiking trails of all lengths meandering through rust-colored rocks. You can also try rafting on the Colorado River.
Acadia National Park, Maine. If you’re on the east coast, then Acadia National Park, near the coast of Maine, is an absolute must. This park is filled with jagged landscapes, granite mountains, lots of wildlife and huge forests. One highlight is a sunrise seen from Cadillac Mountain. If you’re there in the fall, this park is especially beautiful with its autumnal colors.

Curious about studying abroad?

Start your journey today! Read more about the US as a destination for your year abroad, or sign up for a free meeting for more information! If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us.

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New add-on: Special Wish

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It’s almost Christmas – the season of wishes!
What better time to introduce our brand-new concept: Special Wish?

Do you have a specific dream for your exchange? Maybe there’s a particular area you’d love to live in, a favorite subject you’d like to study, or a sport you’d like to continue or try out. Or maybe it’s all of the above – or something else entirely! Whatever your wish, share it with us, and we’ll do our very best to make it come true. The only limit? Your imagination.

We can’t guarantee 100% that every wish will be possible, but we will give it our all. If we can make it happen, an additional fee will apply; if not, no extra charge.

The Special Wish add-on is available for our programs in:
Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, the Netherlands, and New Zealand.

Want to know more? Contact your local STS office today!

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Two weeks in Africa. A lifetime of impact.

Apply to be a part of the 2026 Aiducatius Creativity Internship in The Gambia.

You don’t need to be a published artist – we’re looking for people who bring creativity to life in any form. You might be crafty, great with kids, strong in photography or video, comfortable leading activities, or simply curious and eager to step outside your comfort zone. What matters most is your willingness to use your talent to make a positive difference in a community our parent company Educatius has supported since 2009.

Two students or alumni (from STS or other Educatius partner organizations) will be selected, along with one teacher and one Local Coordinator or host family member. Together you’ll collaborate to plan and teach creative activities at St. Martin’s School in Kartong, learn local techniques from artisans, and experience a warm, welcoming culture. You’ll explore the village, visit nearby communities, and see a part of the world most people never do.

Who can apply and how?

You must be a student, alumni, teacher, LC, or host family member with STS, Educatius or one of our strategic partners. You must be available for the full two-week internship in late June 2026. Students and alumni must be 18–23 at the time of the internship (not negotiable). You must be willing to live in rustic conditions with limited modern comforts. You must be ready to lead creative sessions with students in The Gambia — and learn from them too. Submit an application telling us why you want to go and what activities you would bring. Share why you should be chosen using #aiducatiusinternship. Apply between December 15, 2025 and January 31, 2026. Winners will be contacted and announced on social media in late February 2026

A heartwarming adventure awaits.

What we provide

Airfare and transportation

Flights to and from The Gambia and all local transport.

Accommodation and meals

Two weeks of simple, rustic housing, daily meals, and local sightseeing.

Health insurance and guidance

Coverage during the trip, plus guidance on visas and required vaccinations.

A cultural exchange you’ll never forget

Memories and friendships that last long after the internship ends.

Ready to apply

About The Gambia

The Gambia — often called the Smiling Coast of Africa — is a West African country of 1.5 million people, rich in languages, traditions, and artistic heritage. Kartong is a rural village far from tourist areas but known for its warmth and hospitality.

There is growing support for young artists across the country, with local creativity strengthened by tourism and international partnerships. Since 2009, Aiducatius has helped thousands of students in Kartong gain access to education and new opportunities.

What’s expected of all interns

Work together as one team to plan creative activities in advance, including materials, supplies, and classroom ideas.
Coordinate with teachers at St. Martin’s School to align activities with local needs and student ages.
Lead or co-lead workshops for students from kindergarten through high school.
Stay open, curious, and respectful as you navigate a new culture and daily life in Kartong.
Support each other, whether you are a student, alumni, teacher, LC, or host family member.
Capture and share your journey on social media to inspire others.
Represent Educatius and our exchange community with pride.

Community impact projects

Interns also take part in community projects that support Kartong beyond the classroom. Past groups joined local beach clean-ups and worked with an NGO that turns collected plastic into beads and other art materials. They helped build and stock a small community library with donated books.

Several participants carried the experience home in unexpected ways. A teacher wrote a play inspired by Gambian stories and produced it with her students. An LC organized a fundraiser that paid for new desks for teachers at St. Martin’s School. These projects reflect how small actions can grow into something meaningful — both locally and back home.

Apply for the Aiducatius Internship

Ready to use your creativity to make a real impact in The Gambia?

Submit your application

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Why choose Spain for the high school exchange

Imagine spending a year in Spain as a high school exchange student. It’s a chance to live like a local, fully experiencing life in Spain with good weather, a rich history and culture, great food, nice beaches, small lovely villages, and big vibrant cities. All while you’re still a teenager.

You’ll be surrounded by the Spanish language every day —a language that is the fourth largest language in the world, spoken by 580 million people, and the official language in 21 countries! Becoming fluent in Spanish opens up countless opportunities in your future studies and career.

But the benefits go beyond language Imagine being 14 to 18 years old and waking up each day in a country where life moves a bit differently. Living with a Spanish family, you will discover the Spanish way of living from the inside with lively family dinners, local traditions and festivals, and of course, the national obsession with football. Surely, you’ll soon learn how to enjoy tapas, siesta, and flamenco music!

The lovely Spanish weather makes outdoor activities the best. There is usually plenty to choose from. And not only summer sports like football and golf, when summer ends, you can even go skiing in some parts of the country! Want to try something typically Spanish? Sign up for a flamenco dance course!

Living abroad without your natural family is a big adventure, but it’s one that will give you a second home, friendships, and memories that will last far beyond your exchange. It will make you more independent, confident, and open to new perspectives. Spaniards are famously warm, social, and talkative, and even if that’s not really who you are today, that’s who you will become after living with your Spanish host family!

Good to know: No previous Spanish needed – just an open and curious mind!

Read more about going on an exchange year to Spain.

Read our student stories about being on an exchange year in Spain.

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How to prepare for your high school exchange!

Going on an exchange year is one of the bravest – and most exciting – things you can do as a teenager. You’ll make new friends, discover a new culture, and learn a lot about yourself.

But how do you actually prepare for something this big? Here are a few quick tips to get you started:

Learn the basics of the language
It’s so worth it and helps more than you think. Start with downloading a language training app. Then switch your phone settings and watch films in your new language.
Planning to go to an English, Spanish, Italian or German-speaking country? Join one of our online courses! Here you also get to meet other future exchange students – a great way to connect! Read more on the destination pages.
Learn about the country and make a scrap book
Read up on the culture, history, school system, daily life, etc. Start a notebook or a scrapbook and add photos! Also, why not start writing a bucket list?
Student takeovers on Instagram
Every week, one of our current students shows their daily life on Instagram Stories. Ask all your questions and get answers from the real pros here!
Lovisa’s STS Hacks
Check out or alumna Lovisa’s best tips here!

Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered

As your departure gets closer, we’ll share movie tips, packing guides, music inspiration, and more. Before take-off, you and your parents will be invited to a Pre-Departure Meeting. And last but not least – the Welcome Camp will give you the final prep and let you kick off the adventure together with other exchange students.

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How to choose your exchange destination

Thinking about going on an exchange year? That’s awesome! But with 21 amazing destinations to choose from, how do you even start deciding where to go?

Don’t worry – we’ve got your back. Here are 5 questions to help you figure it out:

What kind of experience are you dreaming of?
Do you want to surf after school, cheer at Friday night football games, or drink hot chocolate in a cozy village with a snowy view? Think about what your everyday life could look like.
Which language do you want to learn?
Want to level up your English in the UK, and get that nice British accent? Learn French in France or Canada? Or maybe learn Spanish in Costa Rica? Living abroad is the best way to become fluent in a language! With STS you learn 12 different languages (plus a few local ones like Gaelic and Te Reo).
Do you prefer city vibes? The great outdoors? Social culture?
Do you love the buzz of a city or feel more at home in a smaller town with calm surroundings? Do you enjoy hiking, skiing, or canooing? Are you at your best in a highly social and family intense culture? Everyone likes different things. Your destination choice should fit your personality.
What school system suits you best?
All countries have different school systems. Some countries focus more on academics, others on creativity, sports, or independence. Maybe you want to have structured classes, interactive classes or more freedom to choose your subjects?
How far out of your comfort zone do you want to go?
Are you ready to do something completely new – maybe a culture, climate or lifestyle that’s the total opposite of what you’re used to? Or would you rather explore something a bit more familiar and focus on the new language?

There’s no right or wrong when deciding on your high school exchange destination. Your exchange will be an unforgettable experience either way!

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News! Prepare yourself with our language courses

Going on an exchange year also means speaking a different language than you are used to. It can be nerve-wracking at first, but don’t worry! When you least expect it, you’ll be speaking and dreaming in your new language. But to make you feel more comfortable, we’ve developed language courses that will prepare you for your exchange year even before you leave.

The courses are online and you will first take a language test to be placed in the right group. The length of the courses varies slightly depending on the language course you take. We currently offer preparatory language courses in English, German, Italian and Spanish. Find out more at each destination.

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News! Now even more choices when you go on exchange to the USA

Previously, we at STS have offered two different programs to those who have chosen to do their exchange year in the USA. Classic and Select. But now we have two new programs, which means that we also offer Academic Exchange and Boarding Exchange.

Classic is our most popular program for going on an exchange year to the USA. It means you will live and go to school somewhere in the US. This is perfect for those who are open to a genuine experience filled with adventure and surprises!

High School Select is our most flexible exchange program where you can choose where in the US you want to live and which school you want to attend. You can also choose from specific school subjects, sports or other interests that are important to you during your exchange year.

Our new program Academic Exchange is like a High School Select but in a slightly smaller version. You get to choose whether you want to go to a public school or a private school and you can choose, for example, a sport, a specific state or a specific subject that you want to study, but we will choose the school for you based on your chosen preference.

Boarding Exchange is exactly what it sounds like! You attend a US boarding school. We place you in one of the 60 different boarding schools we work with around the country. This also means that you will live at the school and not with a host family.

Find out more about our different options and what it means to do an exchange year in the US.

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How to learn a new language fast – tips for exchange students

Moving to a new country and immersing yourself in a different language is one of the most exciting (and sometimes nerve-wracking!) parts of an exchange year. But don’t worry –learning a language fast is possible, and it can be a lot of fun!

Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you become confident in your new language in no time.

Start simple
Don’t overwhelm yourself with complicated texts right away. Instead, start with easy content like children’s books and common words. Learn basic verbs, question words, numbers, weekdays, and short phrases—these will be your foundation for everyday conversations.
Practice every day
Consistency is key! Spending just 15–30 minutes a day practicing is much more effective than cramming once a week. Use language apps and why not label objects around your home with post-its!
Make language learning part of your daily routine
Little things like setting your phone to and start writing your to-do lists in your new language will expose you to new words constantly.
Surround yourself with the language
The more exposure you get, the faster you’ll improve. A great trick is to watch series and movies you already know, but in your new language. Since you’re familiar with the storyline, you’ll pick up words and expressions naturally. More tips: Follow influencers, listen to music, and play your favorite game in the new language.
Start speaking – even if it feels awkward
Speaking is the fastest way to learn! If talking to classmates feels intimidating at first, start with your host family or younger kids – they’ll be patient and happy to help. Even talking to yourself, mentioning the things you do (“putting on my jacket”, “eating a sandwich”), or thinking in the language can help build confidence.
Say yes to every opportunity
Join a school club, sign up for a sport, or simply start chatting with locals. The best way to learn is by doing, and real-life interactions will help you improve faster than any textbook.
Enjoy the process!
Learning a language isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Celebrate small wins, laugh at your mistakes, and enjoy the thrill of expressing yourself in a whole new way!

What not to do:

🚫 focus too much on grammar rules – learning by doing is more effective
🚫 rely only on textbooks – real conversations will take you much further

An exchange year is the ultimate language hack! When you’re surrounded by the language every day, you’ll improve faster than you ever thought possible. Ready for the adventure?

Stay tuned! Soon you will be able to take part in our language courses to prepare you even better for your exchange year.

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Why you should go on exchange to Germany

About 130 million people speak German as a first or second language, and you could be one of them! Germany has an excellent (and free) school and education system and attracts people from all over the world with its cultural offers, unique festivals and diverse landscapes. In addition, there is an interest in international relations and different cultures in this open and diverse country. So you can expect to feel welcome!

Germany is the largest country in the EU in terms of population and economy. And it really has it all. In addition to its high standard of living, you’ll find a great variety of regional cultures and contrasting landscapes. Did you know Germany has coastlines with two seas and 77 islands? That it has 45 mountain ranges including the Alps? That you can hike volcanoes and swim in crater lakes?

Explore a cool music scene that ranges from Classical music to Deutschrap, Indie and Techno. Festivals throughout the year will let you delve into traditional events like Carnival, Oktoberfest and Christmas markets and showcase the international film, theater, literature and art scene. In Germany you will find cozy villages next to exciting cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, Leipzig, Frankfurt or Cologne. This cosmopolitan country is also a center of technology and innovation.

The quality of German education is world-renowned and inclusive. School and university are free and teaching is interactive. Students’ opinions matter and discussions and debates are an important part of the school day.

The most common school type of German high school for exchange students to attend is called Gymnasium. Depending on your age, your grades and your knowledge of the German language you will probably be placed in a grade 10 or 11. German teachers appreciate it when you are active in class. Raise your hand, ask questions and participate in discussions. It will give your German language skills a real boost!

Germans are famously active. They love to travel and explore, enjoy the outdoors on hikes, bicycle tours or camping trips. German teenagers typically have at least one hobby like sports or music that they pursue after school in one of the many clubs aka “Verein” that exist in even the smallest villages.

Of course, you can also spend your free time in a café, cinema or shopping mall with your friends. But here’s a tip for your free time in Germany: Join a club! It’s a great way to make friends and have fun after school. Do you like art, dance, music or theater? Ask your host family to help you find the Verein that suits you best.

Do you want to know more? Join our info meeting about Germany on November 12!

You can also read more about high school exchange in Germany here.

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What does it mean to go on an exchange year

Going on an exchange year at a young age has many benefits. It’s not just language skills and self-confidence that increase. Problem-solving, teamwork and making new friends are also on the list. What’s more, you’ll make great and unforgettable memories for the rest of your life!

Imagine being able to speak another language fluently! Imagine all the people you can talk to and understand, what an adventure it will be! You will experience so many things and learn so much, not only at school, but also with your new friends and your host family. And when the time comes to look for a job, language skills are often in high demand.

Going on an exchange year simply means that you will::

Take a break from your studies here at home
Study at a high school in another country
Live with a host family that will become your second home
Get to know a completely new culture and make new friends for life
When you get home, you continue your studies

Many people want to study abroad at some point in their lives, and becoming an exchange student at a young age is a great option. An exchange year usually lasts 10 months, which is a full school year, but you can also go for 5 months and in some cases for just 3 months. It’s up to you and what suits you best.

Get in touch with us at STS. We will help you find the best exchange year for you. Maybe it’s the USA with the classic yellow buses and prom night, or maybe it’s within Europe like Spain, Germany or Italy? We also offer exchange years to Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Argentina. In addition, many times you can wish if you want to practice a special sport or study a special subject.

The choice is yours! Sign up for an information meeting or call us right away!

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Host family for life

24 years ago, I was on exchange with STS in Cape Town/South Africa. Today, as a local coordinator, I support exchange students and host families in Germany. And I’m still close with my host mom and dad. I have just visited them again in Cape Town!

At the age of 16, I spent my year abroad in Cape Town with Mr. and Mrs. Stoops. My host parents don’t have any children of their own, so I was one of several exchange students they (and their dog!) hosted. Back then, friends used to ask: “Which country are you going to?” because South Africa as a nation was not yet well known among students. Or they warned me about being eaten by lions. But that didn’t put me off.

Of course, there were some issues during my stay. My host father was also my English teacher. Not only did I once get reprimanded for not doing my homework, but my classmates, with whom I became friends, were initially reluctant to come to my house and meet their teacher in their free time. But over time, it became obvious that my host family and me were made for each other. We still use the terms “host mom” and “host dad” to this day.

My year in Cape Town just flew by. The school system (including a school uniform) was exciting, and school life even more so. The national sports of rugby and cricket are played in school teams and their leagues, and once a year the schools even compete in singing performances led by cheerleaders. I tried my hand at cricket, but our team came in last in the school league. We had lots of braais (the Afrikaans word for barbecue), and I found the bilingualism in the Cape Rainbow Nation very exciting. Being involved in the church choir and orchestra helped me personally, as did the numerous excursions and field trips. The safari to Kruger National Park offered by STS was simply fantastic.

But every year comes to an end. For host mom, host dad and me, it was clear that we would see each other again. I visited my host parents a few more times in this most beautiful place in the world. But they also saw me in Germany: the first time for my graduation ball in 2003. It deepened our relationship even more to show them around my home country as a tour guide and to visit various German soccer stadiums with host dad. In 2007, a friend and I spent another three months with my host parents in Cape Town, and in 2010 I visited them with my boyfriend. Despite the great distance (but little to no time difference!), we stayed in touch over the years. My host dad actually walked me down the aisle in 2015 and they visited again 2021. In 2022 we reunited in Cape Town with my family of four.

This April I saw them again in my South African home, where I just reach into a kitchen cupboard straight after arriving and almost blindly grab a glass. We had a quiet time, both of them are retired now and I simply enjoyed the peace and nice weather. Of course, I also explored this indescribably beautiful country again.

I am just so grateful to have found these people. Here’s to hopefully many more wonderful moments near and far!

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