The hallways of Hamilton High School were filled with excitement this week as 22 students from Granada, Spain arrived for their three-week stay in West Michigan. The exchange program, led by Hamilton High School Spanish teacher Ms. Mary Ayres, has become a tradition that gives both Hamilton and Spanish students a chance to experience life in another country.
On their first day, the Spanish students were welcomed by their Hamilton peers, who guided them through the building and introduced them to American high school life. Senior Jayden Bierschbach was one of the student tour guides, walking the visitors through the cafeteria, fine arts wing, gymnasium, weight room, and classrooms.
“The school is so incredibly different from what they’re used to,” said Rebecca, a teacher of the students in Spain who is serving as a chaperone. “In Spain, their day is much more traditional—mostly classroom-based. For them, seeing our huge gym, a track, weightlifting classes, even kids playing frisbee during school—it feels like something out of a movie.”
The exchange students were especially amazed by Hamilton’s indoor gymnasiums, auditorium, and the sheer size of the high school, which houses roughly 800 students. “They were definitely surprised by the gym because they don’t have indoor basketball courts,” Bierschbach noted. “They also really liked the auditorium, saying it was very large compared to what they’re used to.”
The group will spend the next three weeks not only attending school in Hamilton, but also exploring West Michigan and taking in the sights of Chicago. “They’ve been here for just a couple of days, but already they’re most excited about the Chicago trip,” laughed Mr. Brant Haverdink.
Beyond sightseeing, the experience is designed to build meaningful cultural connections. Hamilton students will complete the exchange in June, when they travel to Granada to stay with Spanish host families, attend school, and immerse themselves in Spanish culture, traditions, and daily life.
“It’s incredibly beneficial both ways,” Rebecca explained. “Our students get to see what Spanish school life looks like, experience Spanish food, and live with families in Granada. At the same time, the Spanish students get to see what life in an American high school is like. It’s an eye-opening experience that builds global friendships.”
