Sonya Clarke is a fifteen-year-old junior from Australia. Sonya made the decision to become a foreign exchange student in January 2024. She thought it would be a good idea because it would build her independence, resilience, and ultimately just be a fun experience that she will remember forever.She came to America at the beginning of the school year. She says her favorite part of being here is forming new friendships. She also enjoys being able to do things she wouldn’t normally get to do back home. Sonya loves pep rallies, football games, trying new foods, and just the fun perks of living in a small town. She really wants to get a pair of cowboy boots before she has to go back home.
While Sonya loves being here, she misses her family, friends, and she especially misses her dog, Rosie. Sonya says she doesn’t want to dwell on the things she misses, but instead enjoy the time she has here. She knows that when she leaves, she will miss the sweet friendships she has formed here. I asked Sonya what she would like to take with her when she leaves. Her reply, “Friendships, memories, and a good pair of cowboy boots!”
