Unwritten Song: Exchange Student Journey
Aurel Eunike Sopulatu-INA KL YES to USA YP 24/25
Growing up, I was just like any other little girl full of dreams and completely captivated by Disney. My favorite character was Sofia the First. I’d sit cross-legged in front of the TV, enchanted not only by the glittering tiaras and flowing gowns, but by Sofia herself. She wasn’t born into royalty she became a princess by embracing change, learning, and facing challenges. Even as a child, something about her journey resonated with me. At the time, I had no idea how closely it would one day reflect my own story.
Like Sofia, I’ve stepped into unfamiliar worlds. I’ve had to adjust to new schools, meet new people, and navigate environments where I didn’t always feel like I belonged. I’ve learned to speak up when I felt invisible, to stay kind when it would’ve been easier to retreat, and to believe in myself even when doubt felt louder than hope. Life didn’t give me a magic amulet or talking to animal friends, but it gave me obstacles and those became my training ground.
Coming to the United States as a high school exchange student felt almost unreal. I was born and raised in small cities in Indonesia, and the idea of one day standing in New York felt like a fantasy. I mean, who hasn’t heard the lyrics from Empire State of Mind?
“New York, concrete jungle where dreams are made of / There’s nothin’ you can’t do…” Those words echoed in my head like a distant dream. But on August 5th, 2025, that dream began to take shape. That date will forever be etched in my heart it marked the start of a new chapter, my next step into the future, and the beginning of life with a warm, welcoming American host family.
When I arrived, school hadn’t started yet it wouldn’t begin until September 3rd. So, I had time to explore new things and get involved in volunteering. As someone passionate about social activism, I found joy in serving others, from young kids to adults. That passion led me to become a teacher’s helper at a summer camp at Studio Dansu Performing Arts, a place that offered non-competitive classes in ballet, jazz, tap, street styles, modern, acro, lyrical, music, and acting. As someone who truly enjoys music and the arts, this opportunity felt extraordinary. But my first week wasn’t easy — I struggled with the language barrier and often felt shy. Still, I reminded myself that I couldn’t let fear hold me back. I had 10 months ahead of me, and I was determined to make the most of them. Most of the children I volunteered with were between five and twelve years old. My role went beyond assisting with the arts it was also about being a role model. I helped teach discipline, the importance of staying on time, cleaning up after activities, and lining up politely. Like all kids, sometimes they had disagreements, but I had the chance to guide them through forgiveness and acceptance. I shared simple values from my own family back home words like thank you, sorry, and excuse me. I call them magic words, and I believe they’re powerful when taught early.
Volunteering at Studio Dansu also opened an entirely new world for me: ballet. I had never tried it before, and honestly, I never thought I could do it. Ballet always seemed so graceful and intimidating but with the support of my teacher and the encouragement of the community, I gave it a try. And I’m so glad I did. Besides opening a door to something I never imagined myself doing, ballet also helped me meet new friends many of them my age but from different schools. That was really cool and encouraging for me. I had just arrived in the U.S., and suddenly I had friends who not only shared my love for the arts, but who were genuinely curious about my culture and background. Some even helped me adjust as a newbie to ballet. Their kindness reminded me that new beginnings don’t have to be lonely. Through hard work and encouragement, I eventually performed in the Nutcracker ballet as Greentea on December 8th, 2024. It was such a fun, unforgettable experience. That moment showed me how far I had come from someone who once doubted herself to someone dancing confidently under the stage lights. I found something new within myself: a strength I hadn’t realized was there.
But my artistic journey didn’t stop with ballet. I also came to the U.S. with a deep love for singing, and I knew I wanted to continue growing in that area too. That’s why I joined the Madison Youth Choir, specifically the Cantilena group. This group is so much more than just a choir. It’s a space where we’re encouraged to embrace our passion and explore our personal “hero’s journey.” We work together to transform our weaknesses and insecurities into empowerment and strength not just as singers, but as people. Joining Cantilena gave me the chance to improve my vocal skills, connect with other talented young singers, and grow in confidence. We rehearsed together, supported each other, and prepared for our big concert, which took place on December 15th, 2025. That performance was another milestone in my exchange year a reminder that passion, hard work, and the willingness to be vulnerable can lead to something truly beautiful.
Every step of this journey from volunteering, to dancing, to singing has helped me uncover the person I am becoming. I may have started this adventure far from home, filled with uncertainty, but what I’ve discovered has been more incredible than I ever imagined. I’ve found friendship, growth, courage, and a new sense of belonging.
Like Sofia the First, I’ve learned that you don’t need a perfect beginning to grow into someone strong, graceful, and kind. You just have to be willing to embrace the journey. And now, I’m ready to fully live out my exchange year grateful for every opportunity, every challenge, and every moment. I’m here to cook this year with heart, hope, passion, and purpose one memory at a time.
