Die Region Trentino-Südtirol vergibt jährlich 60 Stipendien für Schüler und Schülerinnen, die ein Schuljahr im Ausland verbringen möchten. Diese Initiative zielt darauf ab, Jugendlichen die Möglichkeit zu geben, ihre schulische Ausbildung in einem anderen europäischen Land zu erweitern und interkulturelle Erfahrungen zu sammeln. Neu in diesem Jahr ist, dass vier der 60 Stipendien speziell für Schüler und Schülerinnen mit Lernstörungen reserviert sind, was die Zugänglichkeit für alle Schülergruppen erhöht.
Die Anträge auf Teilnahme an der Ausschreibung sind bis 20. Februar 2025 einzureichen
Für weitere Informationen können Interessierte sich an das ZIB wenden.
Annamaria Paulmichl, Schülerin der Klasse 5K/ku Gymme, hat uns einen eindrucksvollen Erfahrungsbericht über ihr Schuljahr im Ausland zukommen lassen. In diesem Artikel möchten wir ihre Erlebnisse teilen und dabei mögliche Zweifel und Unsicherheiten ausräumen, die viele Schüler und Schülerinnen vor einem solchen Abenteuer empfinden.
An Unforgettable Year in the United States: My Exchange Experience
Looking back on my exchange year in the United States, I can honestly say it was one of the best experiences of my life. It wasn’t always easy, but each challenge along the way only made the journey more meaningful.
One of the biggest challenges I faced was switching host families halfway through the year. I had to make this change in January, which felt overwhelming at first. But thankfully, a close friend took me in, and I found myself welcomed with open arms. Both of my host families were incredibly kind and unforgettable, and I’m still in close contact with both of them today. My second host sister, in particular, has become my best friend—someone I know I’ll always stay in touch with.
The school I attended was absolutely amazing. It gave me the chance to grow, learn, and thrive in ways I never expected. One of the highlights was definitely soccer. I was able to really blossom on the field, and that gave me a sense of accomplishment and belonging that I hadn’t known before.
Living in the U.S. also meant experiencing American traditions and events like prom and friendsgiving, which felt like a dream come true. And the hard work I put into graduating, earning a diploma, and being part of a community made everything even more special. It was during this time that I also built friendships that I know will last a lifetime.
The decision to go on an exchange year wasn’t easy, and there were moments when I doubted myself. But looking back now, I can see how much I’ve grown. It pushed me to step outside my comfort zone, to take risks, and to build a life for myself in a completely new place. Through this process, I learned more about who I am, and I became stronger and more independent.
I will always be grateful for the people I met, the experiences I had, and the memories I made. It was a year that changed me in the best possible way.
If you’re considering an exchange year, my advice is simple: go for it. Yes, it’s a challenge, but it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do. You’ll not only discover new places and cultures—you’ll also discover things about yourself that you never imagined.
