Spirkelback → Kansas City

To most, a 16-hour flight sounds less than ideal, but to Birk Hinnersmann it was the start of one of the best experiences of his life. Hinnersmann, a 15-year-old from Spirkelback, Germany, made the decision last year to come to America as a foreign exchange student. 

“I’ve never been to this country and I always wanted to come so when I got the chance to see the school, people, and how things work here, I took it,” Birk said and he didn’t regret his choice as he has experienced all sorts of new things. From his first time on a football field to his first time eating a taco, he has loved America and already is making plans to come back. 

Although Birk has loved learning all different types of subjects at South, he especially enjoys Mrs. Carson’s graphic design course. “So far, graphic design has been the most interesting class because I really like art and Mrs. Carson makes it really fun,” Birk said and he plans to keep learning more when he returns to Germany. 

Not only is Birk learning all about the way of life in America, but he is also teaching others about his life in Germany. “This experience has taught me a lot about how different two people can be, but also how similar,” Phen Hardin, a junior at South and Birk’s host, said. He and Birk have grown close over this short, two-week trip and have bonded over their similarities and differences. 

Birk is returning to Germany this weekend, but the relationships he has formed and the experiences he has had will last a lifetime. His friends in America will be sad to see him go but they promise to keep in touch and potentially even visit. Hardin will have the opportunity to step into Birk’s shoes next summer on a two-week trip to Germany. The boys are already excited to reunite and catch up but for now, the two will enjoy the memories made on this adventure.