Paulina Matern is a new foreign exchange student at Owatonna High School this year. Matern is from Frankfurt, a town in Germany. Matern said, “I wanted to experience the American high school, meet new people, explore a different culture and improve my English.”

Matern’s biggest fear when coming to the United States was getting homesick.  Her host family has helped her enjoy her time here so far. Matern will stay with one host family during her time in the United States. Matern said, “My host family welcomed me really sweetly. I feel very comfortable in their family and really enjoy it.”

Transferring schools has been an enjoyable change for Matern. Matern said, “The school in America is more fun. We have so many fun classes, and it is less strict. As well, the school lunch is so much better than in Germany.” In Matern’s free time, she has been exploring what Minnesota has to offer. This involves shopping at Target, Walmart and the Mall of America. 

Coming to the United States is a huge adjustment compared to Germany. Matern said, “[The biggest change she has seen is] the positive mindset of people.” Matern will miss many things after returning back to Germany. Matern said, “[I will miss] the school, my host family, my friends and the American food.” 

OHS continues to be a welcoming environment for foreign exchange students. Many foreign exchange students are a part of OHS this year. Read more about OHS foreign exchange students on ohsmagnet.com soon.