The sights of Germany left an impression on students from Victor J. Andrew High School this month, but the memories they brought home extend far beyond famous landmarks and historic sites.
A group of Andrew students and teachers recently spent 17 days in Germany as part of a long-running student exchange program with Wichern-Schule in Hamburg. While the trip included visits to places rich in history, including Berlin, Frankfurt and the medieval town of Büdingen, the experience was centered on something deeper: living like locals.
Students stayed with German host families, attended classes, shared meals and took part in everyday routines, gaining a firsthand look at life in another country.
The exchange between Andrew High School and Wichern-Schule began in 2002 and has continued for nearly a quarter-century, giving students on both sides of the Atlantic an opportunity to build friendships and cultural understanding.
During their stay, students explored Germany’s past and present. A two-night visit to Berlin included lessons about the Berlin Wall, the Cold War and the country’s reunification. They also traveled to cities such as Marburg, Mainz and Frankfurt, where they experienced a mix of historic architecture, modern city life and local traditions.
Yet some of the most meaningful moments happened away from the tourist attractions.
Students practiced their German language skills in real-world situations, navigated unfamiliar places and adapted to daily life in another culture. They also visited schools and connected with German students their own age, creating friendships that often continue long after the trip ends.
German teacher Erika Lupacchino said the exchange offers an experience that cannot be replicated in a classroom.
“One of the greatest strengths of this exchange is that students experience Germany not as tourists, but as temporary members of German families,” Lupacchino said. “They attend classes, share meals with their host families, participate in daily activities and gain a firsthand understanding of German culture and life.”
The visit to Germany marked the second half of the exchange. Earlier this school year, German students traveled to Tinley Park and spent time at Andrew High School. During their stay, they shared presentations about German culture with language students and explored Chicago’s many attractions.
Lupacchino said the trip’s greatest success was not measured by the number of places visited but by the way students embraced the opportunity.
“The most memorable part of the trip wasn’t any particular place or activity,” she said. “The thing we are most proud of is how our students conducted themselves throughout the trip. They represented Victor J. Andrew High School, Tinley Park and their families with maturity, kindness and curiosity.”
Students returned home with photos, souvenirs and stories to tell, but perhaps more importantly, they came back with a broader view of the world and a greater appreciation for the connections that can form across cultures and continents.
