For most high school seniors, graduation marks the end of a busy academic year filled with classes, sports, and local memories. But for Rebekah Hudson, a recent graduate of West Liberty-Salem, senior year looked a little different. She spent the past ten months more than 5,000 miles away in Santiago, Chile, participating in the Rotary Youth Exchange Program.
Living in the bustling capital city within a district called Las Condes, Rebekah immersed herself in Chilean culture, life, and language while staying with two host families. “I think what compelled me to go was the wonderful experiences I had with the Rotary Club,” she shared in an email interview. “My family hosted exchange students from Turkey and Taiwan, and we still stay in touch. Seeing their cultures firsthand, and hearing about my sister’s amazing exchange experience, really inspired me.”
With only a credit and a half remaining to graduate, Rebekah took the initiative to complete her coursework online, clearing the way for an unforgettable year abroad.
From Culture Shock to Connection
Though the transition wasn’t without challenges, Rebekah quickly discovered how powerful human connection can be—especially across languages and customs.
“The part I’ve loved the most is getting to connect with other people, whether it’s through language or sharing culture,” she explained. “School was the hardest part at first, but once I learned the language, it became one of my favorite parts. I’ve made lifelong friends.”
Chilean school life offered both structure and celebration. “There are so many festivities here,” she said. “We celebrated September 18th, Chile’s Independence Day, by dancing a national dance, eating traditional Chilean food like empanadas, and going to lots of barbecues.”
Exploring the World’s Wonders
Rebekah also had the opportunity to travel across Chile with other exchange students, visiting places most people only dream of.
“I’ve gone to Easter Island, Patagonia, and San Pedro de Atacama. Every trip has been an incredible experience. I feel honored to have gotten to know these beautiful places.”
Words of Wisdom for Future Explorers
For students considering exchange, Rebekah offers heartfelt encouragement.
“Do it. This has been the most wonderful experience of my life. It was insanely hard to leave what had been my home and family, but living the day-to-day life in a new place is one of the greatest opportunities this life has to offer.”
She adds, “In the moments when I felt alone, I learned to lean on the Lord for strength. I learned to adapt, and I learned to communicate even when I couldn’t find the right words.”
As Rebekah returns to Ohio with a year of unforgettable experiences, friendships, and personal growth under her belt, she brings with her a global perspective, deep gratitude, and the kind of strength only found when we step far outside our comfort zone.