Q&A with HSPVA Exchange Student

I interviewed one of this year’s foreign exchange students at HSPVA, Juairya Taskin, a junior in the creative writing department, who came all the way from the country of Bangladesh.

What program(s) did you come to HSPVA through?

I came here through YES program and am coordinated and handled currently by AFS intercultural programs.

How do you like HSPVA so far? How was your first semester here?

The first semester at HSPVA was a lot of understanding how things work here, experimenting with what I like and what kind of schedules suit me. So far I enjoy PVA, and I really appreciate the fact that it’s your typical American high school, but with an amazing arts program.

What motivated you to do the exchange program? What inspired you to choose HSPVA?

 I wanted to go on an exchange because I was obsessed with America. I’m serious, I loved this country’s culture and diversity and I desperately needed this change in life. Most exchange students don’t get to choose a high school, but as you have to audition for HSPVA, I was given a choice on if I wanted to come here or not, so my response was, as I’m trying something completely new might as well try this unique school also.

Have you ever spent a school year at another school through the exchange program?

Nope, this was my first ever time flying out of my country!

What was the most memorable moment this year at PVA? What have you enjoyed the most at the school?

It wasn’t particularly in school, but the Austin trip with our creative writing department with everyone was definitely a highlight of my time so far. Happenings are also always fun and exciting.