To those from Oregon, the state’s stunning natural beauty and lively urban area are regular and familiar. However, there are many coming to Oregon — whether it’s seeking employment, for fun, or for school — just discovering its beauty. Oregon is a great place for higher education; it’s known for its many great colleges and universities, such as the University of Oregon (UO) and Oregon State University (OSU). Many people travel from all over the world to come to the state, and the cultural difference may be surprising, but adapting to a new place is an important experience, and one may even find themself wanting to stay.
One way to travel and experience new places is through student exchange programs. These programs allow students from other countries to travel and be exposed to a different culture, a different way of life, and a different education — all on a deeper level than what can be experienced through just tourism. It gives those lucky enough to experience it new perspectives and a new daily routine.
Over 30,000 students come to the U.S. as a part of exchange programs each year, according to the STS Foundation, a student exchange nonprofit. Student exchange programs usually last a whole school year or a semester, depending on the program. You get a host family, who helps you learn to adapt to the new country you’re in. Living in a new country takes some adjustment, but it can be as fun as you make it to be.
“[Oregon and Portland are] really different in a lot of aspects, such as culture, the form of thinking, the form of teaching … but I think that is what makes Oregon/Portland so special,” says Nora Martin Castro, a former senior exchange student at Franklin, who came to Portland from Spain. She expresses her love for her time in Portland, stating she did feel there was a cultural barrier between herself and locals, but she made good friends and enjoyed Oregon’s mountains.
Of course, not every transplant to Oregon is from another country. Many students come to Oregon from all over the U.S. to attend college. “I love how educated and knowledgeable everyone is about politics and culture,” says Lexi Gomez, a freshman at UO. Gomez is from Orange County, California. She says that for her, the biggest difference between Portland and Orange County is that in California, no one is as politically active as in Portland, and Portland feels more tight-knit and urbanized. She especially loves the local cafes, including Crema Coffee + Bakery in downtown Portland.
Nonetheless, there are things about Portland that can’t be overlooked or sugar-coated. “I was saddened by the number of homeless tents up and [was] shocked at how normal it was for Portlanders,” says Ryan Boldt, who attends OSU. She lived in Washington until she was 3, moved to Italy, and just recently came back to the United States for college. She notes how in Oregon, there’s a definite weather adjustment from Italy, and people are more outgoing and expressive. She also notes that though she lived on the Pacific Coast in her early years, she feels there’s a barrier between her and local Oregonians.
Though Portland and Oregon have their ups and downs, moving here can offer a fun and beautiful experience, and you could possibly meet your people. Portland offers many ideal experiences for travelers, and there are many iconic spots in the city, such as the Portland sign and local food spots all over. It’s close in proximity to nature and has a vibrant nightlife and food culture. “There is amazing food. I haven’t been to a restaurant I didn’t like,” says Eva Milan Engel, a freshman at UO from Palisades, California.
Whether you’re in Oregon for school, an exchange trip, or just passing through, you must appreciate Portland for its natural beauty. Overall, no matter what walk of life you come from, you can find joy in the Beaver State.
