Eisenhower High School has established itself as a healthy place for students from abroad.
One of Ike’s foreign exchange students this year junior Muskan Devrajani, who is from Pakistan. She enjoys the sense of community at Eisenhower. And in turn, she’s been helped others learn about her culture.
Here, Devrajani shares about her thoughts on the foreign exchange program and how it has changed her life.
Why did you become a foreign exchange student and what did you have to do to be in this program?
“I became a foreign exchange student to immerse myself in a new culture, improve my language skills and gain a broader understanding of the world. To be part of this program, I had to go through a rigorous application process that involved submitting academic records, undergoing interviews, obtaining necessary visas and meeting language proficiency requirements.”
How has your experience in the U.S. been different from Pakistan?
“My experience in the U.S. has been notably different from Pakistan due to various factors. In the U.S., I have observed a greater emphasis on individualism, a more diverse cultural landscape, a different educational structure and a more open and casual social environment compared to what I was accustomed to in Pakistan.”
What “American experience” were you most looking forward to?
“The American experience I was most eager about was participating in has been extracurricular activities like the debate club at Eisenhower High School, engaging with American history firsthand, experiencing cultural events, and forming friendships with students from diverse backgrounds.”
What have you done to get involved with Ike?
“I joined the debate club, attended school events, participated in cultural exchange programs, interacted with classmates from various backgrounds and sought out opportunities to integrate into the school community through volunteering and participating in different clubs and activities.”
What have you liked about Ike so far?
“What I particularly appreciate about my time at Ike includes the warm and inclusive environment, the strong sense of community among students, the support from teachers and staff and the numerous opportunities available for personal and academic growth.”
Summary
The freedom Devrajani has experienced at Ike here has been a big change for her.
“We can’t talk to our teacher like friends or even ask questions in class,” Devrajani explained, referring to her Pakistani school.
She believes life at Ike has changed her for the better, and she become fond of the school and the country.
Could Devrajani see herself coming back to the U.S. after her program here ends in May?
“Yes, I love the U.S.,” she said. “I really want to spend the rest of my adult life in America if I can. It would be a dream.”
Annaka Yockey is a sophomore at Eisenhower High School.
