"I had an amazing journey going to Japan through the Haddonfield Japan Exchange. Not only were our group excursions exciting, I also gained a different perspective about the world while living with a host family. The exchange was something I really enjoyed being a part of and is an experience I will come back to reflect on for years."
"From the moment I arrived at Sendai train station, I knew this experience would be special. I can’t explain how much I enjoyed my time with the Abe family, or how quickly we all bonded. I’ve made lifelong friends and will always treasure these memories. I’ll always feel lucky to have had this amazing experience in Japan and am so truly grateful that I was selected for this life-changing trip."
"The strongest bond I formed was with my host family - they were very kind to me throughout the trip. We did many things together, including visiting the Temple in the Sky and hiking to various temples and scenic spots overlooking the Pacific ocean. I especially built a strong relationship with my host student Kota. We bonded as we learned we have similar personalities and interests. Overall, my trip was filled with many exciting and educational moments that gave me a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and life."
"Japan left a lasting impression on me, and I’m grateful for every moment I spent there. It was even more meaningful to share this adventure with my Haddonfield classmates. I will always treasure and probably never get to experience a trip to Japan the same way again."
"I stayed with a host family who I already had a strong relationship with - last year, the son had stayed with our family as part of the cultural exchange. My host family was just really nice and welcoming to me. From what I’ve heard from other Haddonfield classmates on this trip, they had similar experiences with their host families."
“Seeing my host sister after a year apart was one of the most exciting, emotional moments in my life. Getting to spend two weeks with her here in Haddonfield was amazing and we had so much fun together. I loved being able to repay the kindness her and her family showed me when I was in Japan.”
“Hosting a Japanese student was an experience I'll remember forever. I had a blast showing Yuna around and introducing her to as many American things as we could in just two weeks. She and the other Sendai students had so much fun - we all cried when it ended. Yuna and I still call each other all the time. We’ll definitely visit each other again.”
“The opportunity to host a Japanese student was an experience I won't forget and helped prepare me for future travel abroad. I still think about my student and the fun we had.”
“Hosting Yuto and meeting people I never would have met was priceless. I loved hearing everyone’s different perspectives and learning how different life is in Japan. HJE gave me the chance to make friendships that eventually felt like family. From laughing together to crying when it was time to say goodbye, it was truly an unforgettable experience.”
“My English is not perfect, but everyone was so kind and funny. I was so happy to spend the most memorable two weeks of my life with everyone I love. I’m also very thankful to the community in Haddonfield for being so kind and supportive.”
“I still miss everyone and America so much. I’m looking forward to the day when I can see everyone and the teachers again. I love you all.”
“I really had a wonderful time in America. If I could, I would live with Haddonfield Japan Exchange students forever. Thank you very much for including me.”
“I had an amazing experience and really enjoyed the program. Thank you for giving me such a wonderful opportunity! I also have a new goal: to save money and go back to America to see my host sister again!”.”