Homecoming was something students in Spain only dreamt about or saw in the movies, that is until they came here.

While homecoming is well known in the U.S., according to a Spanish exchange student, Spain does not offer these activities and most of their knowledge of the event is through American movies.  

“We had only seen it (homecoming dance) in movies like ‘High School Musical’, and after we experienced it’s been a dream come true,” Spanish exchange student Natalia Palacios said.

When asked what they thought about homecoming proposals Palacios said, “I think teens here have a romantic spirit which teens in Spain are losing.”

The foreign exchange students did not only get the opportunity to experience a truly American high school event, homecoming, but a trip to the Art Institute, Maggie Daley Park, Navy Pier, and the Museum of Science and Industry.

“My favorite thing about America is being able to see the large buildings, everything, it’s so big,” Spanish exchange student Maria Arche said.

While the Spanish exchange program has been around for more than a decade, seniors who traveled to Spain two years ago hosted their “hermano/a.’’

“I decided to host because I wanted to have the opportunity to see my sister again,” senior Emily Rivera said. “We became best friends in the span of 10 days and I felt like we could take on anything together. This time around, I feel like we are closer than ever.”

After all the fun homecoming festivities students’ friendships grew.

Additionally, the host students value the opportunities the exchange program has to offer.

“Having the privilege of participating in this program is something I will forever be grateful for. I wish everyone in our school could experience it because is truly life-changing,” Rivera said.

For the seniors, it was their last time hosting or traveling with the exchange program but they plan to stay in touch.

“I know that saying goodbye to my sister will be of the hardest goodbyes I’ve ever had to do. The first time I knew I would see her again, this time I’m not so sure,” Rivera said. “I plan to travel to Spain this summer and visit her, I’m hoping that (it will)work out.”

The Spanish students form Soria arrived Sept. 6 and left Sept.17