The Woodlands High School has been hosting Japanese exchange students for 19 years. The program allows for exchange students to study English, explore different classes, and make new friends. The program lasts for eight days, in which members participate in many activities both in school and within the community.  

During their stay they have been engaged in classes and activities like cheer, Anatomy and Physiology, and various math classes. Many of the students have said that they have enjoyed meeting new friends during their stay, and they really enjoyed the Cheerleading class. They were able to participate and even do stunts with the group. Mr. McIntosh, Japanese teacher, said that “it is really special to form bonds with people you don’t know.” Both the visiting students and our current TWHS students learn and support each other in language and cultural acquisition. 

There are many differences between Japanese and US schools. For one, Japanese schools usually start a little later. Their school in Japan starts at 8:50 while The Woodlands High School starts at 7:15. Another difference is that instead of the student moving to their next classes, the teachers move classes instead.

The students are staying with local families in the area, providing a comforting home for the students. One exchange student recalls how he, “made hamburgers, his favorite American food” with his host family. Another student enjoyed a visit to the “famous” HEB Superstore. During the remainder of their stay they plan on visiting NASA, watching a baseball game, and having a party at a local lake.

Overall the students are in agreement that their favorite thing about America so far has been the fast food, how everything is bigger, and making connections and friendships that they hope will last a lifetime. While our Japanese visitors have enjoyed their stay, TWHS students have expressed they will be missed here in the halls of the high school.