2009-2010 Exchange Student's Parent's Sharing 
 

Like other parents, we also had mixed feeling when Douglas came to us saying that he would like to join an exchange program to the USA for one year. We then had some worries and puzzles about the arrangement particularly when it would be a year-long trip to such a distant country and Douglas was only sixteen at that time.

But at the same time we needed to appreciate the many good sides of the opportunity. Douglas could take the chance to live and learn as the American teens do. He could also see the other part of the world in his own right. So, we bought Douglas the tickets to Michigan in September 2007 as the exchange program was well-established and there were experienced and dedicated personnel like Joyce (HK) and Kristi (US) from the CETUSA who provided the support and co-ordination here and there.

Although Michigan was so far away from HK, we were quite updated about Douglas and his activities out there. We communicated very often through distance calls, MSN, Blog, emails, letters or a middle man (Douglas’s uncle was working in California). Over the year, there was never any short of contact or linkage between Douglas and us. It helped to smooth his home-sickness and form a good boost to our bonding.

Thanks to Gramy and her family (the Host Family), CTA (the High School) and all concerned, Douglas completed the program in May 2008 with flying colour. He was a graduate of CTA and attained the status of the Honour’s Roll. He came back to HK in June 2008, not only with the diploma and certificate but also the experience, friendship, vision, knowledge, memories, confidence, spirit, inspiration and so on.

While it is difficult to gauge exactly what Douglas has learnt out of the exchange program, it is easy to see some cognitive impact of the trip which, among others, makes him well placed to start the matriculation course. He is motivated, determined and geared up. He likes to learn English more than ever and holds an upper hand to learn Geography and Economics of which the understanding of some topics and concepts can undoubtedly be enhanced with an open and globe-bound mindset.

We sincerely urge the parents to consider an exchange program for their children if it is on offer.

Dilys & Peter 
(Douglas’s parents)