A group of eager students embarked on a four thousand mile journey for a two week visit from Denmark to Blackhawk Country! Sixteen foreign exchange students enjoyed all that North Buncombe High School (NBHS) and the United States had to offer as part of the cultural exchange experience. Students first arrived in Washington D.C. where they explored the capitol before making their way to Weaverville. Principal Kevin Yontz said this is a long standing tradition between the two countries.
“NBHS began hosting Denmark students around 2008,” he said. “Our teachers and kids cherish this opportunity to learn and share cultural differences with one another.”
Students noted that a few differences were food, lifestyle, school and government. While one student had this to say about the uniquenesses in the cultures.
“I learned about how different our cultures are, for example how we use more cars while they use more public transportation and walk more,” said NBHS junior Luke Sineath.
Teachers who facilitated the visit loved seeing the students from each country interact with one another. The Danish students received an in depth experience from both NBHS and the host families.
“It's amazing to see so many NBHS students curious and excited to learn more about the Danish exchange students,” said math teacher Tony Dezio. “Our students were able to learn about different cultures, politics, and societal issues of another country by talking to students their own age from Denmark. Ultimately, a student exchange like this fosters an understanding of diversity that you can't experience from a history book or movie. The overall experience is very empowering for everyone involved.”
Some of the activities over the two week course included a tour of the Cherokee Museum, a look into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and a college visit to Mars Hill University. Danish students also had a chance to experience popular fast food restaurants, Target, the Asheville Mall, large grocery stores, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
“It was so much fun to have someone with me everyday for a week, and now I am excited to have the opportunity to see what they do for fun in Denmark,” said Sophomore, Sophia Barchuk.
In September the host students from NBHS will head to Denmark as they spend a two week visit there getting to learn about Danish culture. Mr. Dezio has high hopes for the future of the program.
“Ideally I would like to see the program continue to grow at our school by doing exchanges with schools in other countries,” he explained. “I would love to see more Buncombe County Schools incorporated into an international exchange program with both middle and high school students.”
