Congratulations Nacel Open Door Star, Urszula!

Nacel Open Door (NOD) is excited to introduce one of our amazing Academic Year Program (AYP) students and Nacel Open Door Star, Urszula of Poland! Urszula is our Rich Banisikowski scholarship winner for 2024-2025.

For many exchange students, studying in the U.S. is a journey filled with new experiences, personal growth, and eye-opening discoveries. From adapting to a new education system to exploring iconic destinations and building lifelong connections, every moment shapes their perspective in unexpected ways. Urszula has spent the past six months embracing all that her exchange on the West Coast has to offer. In her own words, she shares how this experience has helped her grow, allowed her to explore new places, and given her the chance to build meaningful connections with her host family and school community.

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"When I first learned I had been selected as a recipient of the Rich Banisikowski Memorial Scholarship, I couldn’t believe my luck. This incredible opportunity has allowed me to experience life as an exchange student on the West Coast of the United States, and it has been nothing short of extraordinary. Living in California—a charming town with stunning views of mountains and just a short distance from San Francisco—has been a dream come true.

Now, six months into my exchange and halfway through this incredible adventure, I’ve grown in ways I never imagined. I’ve learned so much—not just about life in the U.S., but also about myself. I’ve discovered the importance of adaptability, embracing new challenges and navigating unfamiliar situations with an open mind. This experience has also taught me to appreciate the diversity and vibrancy of American culture, where so many perspectives come together to create something truly special.  


One of the greatest parts of my exchange so far has been the opportunity to see the United States from so many perspectives. I’ve explored iconic landmarks like Yosemite National Park, where I admired towering cliffs and waterfalls, and I’ve driven along the stunning California coastline, with its dramatic ocean views and picturesque small towns. At the same time, I’ve experienced the vibrant energy of San Francisco in so many different ways—riding cable cars, walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring bustling neighborhoods, and even attending a baseball game. These adventures have deepened my appreciation for the variety and richness of life in this country.

Another highlight has been the hands-on approach to education in the U.S. At my school, I’ve participated in activities like dissections in physiology class or simulations in my American government class have been another exciting way to dive into the subject matter. These hands-on experiences have been both empowering and inspiring. They showed me how engaging learning can be when it’s rooted in real-world applications. Beyond academics, joining cross-country in the fall gave me the chance to meet incredible people in a welcoming atmosphere, and I’m eagerly anticipating the track and field season in the spring as another opportunity to connect with others who share my interests.  

Living with my host family has been an equally transformative part of this journey. My host mom, Alison, has been wonderfully supportive, and I’ve loved getting to explore the Bay Area through her eyes. Sharing this experience with Julian, a German exchange student, has added another layer to my adventure. I’ve learned so much about German culture and cuisine alongside discovering American traditions. It’s incredible to think that while living in the U.S., I’ve also been building connections with Europe! Of course, I can’t forget Iris, our playful German Shepherd, who joins us on hikes and walks that make me feel even more connected to my new environment. Last but not the least, my host sisters, Hannah and Soffia, although they don’t live with us full-time, have enriched my understanding of American life by offering their unique perspectives as young adults.

This journey has been one of personal growth, cultural discovery, and countless unforgettable moments. I’m so grateful for the Rich Banisikowski Memorial Scholarship, which has made this life-changing experience possible. As I look ahead to the second half of my exchange, I’m excited to keep learning, exploring, and embracing every opportunity that comes my way."

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Thank you, Urszula, for being a NOD star!

Nacel Open Door is grateful to Urszula for sharing her story and for all of our host families who welcome our students into their homes and make international student exchanges work so well! To learn more about becoming a Host Family or Local Representative, and developing these lifelong relationships, visit www.nacelopendoor.org/get-involved