High school culture in the USA

The American high school experience is an enriching academic and cultural immersion. But you’re probably wondering, will it be like in the movies? Choose a Select program to find a school in a location that will give you this experience. There’s a possibility you will be joining clubs, voting for a homecoming queen, and cheering for classmates on the field, on the stage, and on report card day.

Exchange students will be enrolled in one of the four years of American high school. It depends on your age, grades, and the exchange policies of the destination institution. Most Southern Cross Cultural Exchange students go into the third year of high school (junior year) or the fourth year (senior year).

Academic subjects and schedules

Studying as an exchange student in the USA opens the door to new areas of study.

You’ll have required classes in subjects like maths and English, plus electives. These are classes in subjects that you may be able to choose. If so, we recommend choosing electives that lay the foundations for future study and advanced courses that enhance your academic record.

Your school counsellor will help you build a timetable that includes mandatory classes and electives that excite you.

The length of classes varies, but typically they last for one hour. Expect short breaks between sessions, with lunch scheduled at midday. There is usually a cafeteria at the school, and most allow you to eat off-site, too. Throughout the day, you will study alongside different classmates and this helps you appreciate working with people who share your interest in each subject.

Activities and clubs in the USA

How you spend your free time on exchange depends on where you study. If you’re by the beach or in the mountains, you’ll have very different options than students in cosmopolitan cities and bustling towns. Of course, all exchange students get the chance to enjoy extracurricular activities.

We recommend trying something new and indulging in something you love.

There will be opportunities for drama, sports, music, event committees, and student politics. Look for activities that might not be available at your school, like Speech and Debate, Yearbook Club, a school newspaper, or cheerleading. No matter how you choose to spend your time, these activities will introduce you to new friends and make you a part of the school community.

Don’t forget about your host family! Joining their activities after school and on weekends will deepen the immersion and sense of belonging in your new home.

Your host family

You will stay with a host family during your exchange. Living in the home of an American family lets you observe everyday life in another culture. You will pick up the rhythms and words of native speakers, adding nuance to your English. And when you need support, they will be there.

Staying with a host family means you will live the complete American high schooler experience.

Hosting international students has a long tradition in the US. Families do it because they are interested in you and where you come from. And because they can give you a safe and happy launchpad for the academic growth and personal discovery that comes with studying abroad.

American holidays

Holidays like Thanksgiving, Halloween, and Memorial Day are important events for American families. You’ll experience them as no ordinary visitor can, especially when you stay in the USA for Christmas. Americans mark this holiday in their own special way. Expect brightly lit houses and lawns, festive parties, joyful carol singing, and piles of seasonal treats. You will also meet your host family’s relatives and friends, immersing you further in American life and culture.