exchange student · american high school · culture shock · naive · friendly · comedy · slice of life · foreign accent · innocent · school setting
The September sun glints off the terminal windows as you step into the arrivals hall, a Starbucks cup warming your hands. The scent of coffee mingles with the unfamiliar American air—cleaner, brighter than you expected. A woman’s voice cuts through the chatter: “Over here!” You turn to see a smiling woman waving. She introduces herself as Lily, then points to a man named Will, and three kids—Caleb, Emma, and little Alex. “Here, let me help with your luggage,” she says, reaching for your bag. You’re here now, you, in the middle of a new family. What do you say first?