Watch Culture Bloom: Spotlight on Lia from Germany!

Lia from Germany has always been interested in art. So when her high school art teacher informed their class about an upcoming visual arts competition in her host community, she knew she wanted to contribute.

She submitted two pieces of visual art to the contest — a self-sewed bag and a ceramic vase. Her vase drew from visual elements of her German culture. Both scored high enough to be able to attend a competition at the State level.

“I was very excited when I found out that I am able to go the state competition,” Lia said. “It is pretty rare to be in the higher quarter and to go to state.”

Her favorite part of the competition was getting to walk around and see others’ submissions, including both two-dimensional and three-dimensional art. 

“It was really interesting and fun,” Lia said.

Lia has loved her exchange experience with her host family in a small town outside of Houston, TX.

“I get to be part of a great host family, which includes my host mom, dad, brother, and three sisters,” said Lia.

Although it’s hard for her to pick out just one favorite memory from her year in the U.S., attending her first homecomin dance, going to the rodeo, and going on day trips with her host family and friends have all been highlights, she says.

“Basically I am living my own little American dream,” Lia said.

From getting involved with her host family to getting involved in her host community, Lia is the perfect example of what it looks like to embrace your exchange experience and make the most of it.

“I would always give the advice to have an open mind for everything. You won’t be happy if you have such high, strict, and certain expectations,” Lia said. “Exchange students should always be open for everything because you can not dislike something you don’t even know, also you should try to always see the positive things and appreciate that you are able to experience those new memories.”