On August 16th, 2024, the 294-day countdown began for San Domenico’s one-year students. With 42 weeks away from home and fully immersed in American culture, what moments, challenges, and accomplishments defined their year?
Bea Ballesteros, a sophomore from Spain, came to San Domenico on a one-year athletic scholarship for water polo. But her biggest goals weren’t just in the pool.
“My main goals were learning English and connecting with new people from other countries,” Ballesteros said. “I tried not to speak much Spanish and just really connect with people here.”
Even though the language barriers were a challenge at first, Ballesteros said she pushed herself to improve.
“At the beginning, I didn’t know how to speak English that well, so I didn’t understand people,” Ballesteros explained. “But now I feel my English has improved a little, and I’ve met a lot of new people—from Brazil, Germany, China, the U.S., and more.”
However, homesickness was a big challenge for her.
“After Christmas [being away from home] was really hard,” Ballesteros admitted. “I already knew what I was missing back home, and it was hard to live without my family and friends.”
Still, she doesn’t regret a thing.
Looking back, Ballesteros encourages others to fully embrace their time at SD.
“Live the experience 100% because it passes really, really quickly,” Ballesteros said. “Try to meet new people and have fun every minute of your day.”
Erich Hajek, a half-Austrian, half-Spanish sophomore on an ASSIST scholarship, came to San Domenico hoping to experience something new and fully embrace California life.
“My main goals were to have a great experience, find a lot of friends, and really live the American high school life,” Hajek said. “I especially wanted to experience the California lifestyle.”
And so he did. From Southern California to the Bay Area, Hajek explored cities, met people from around the world, and connected with local students who introduced him to their culture.
“They showed me what it’s like to be a Californian,” Hajek said.
But even with all the fun, there was one challenge that constantly stayed in the back of his mind.
“As a one-year student, the hardest part was knowing this joy was temporary,” Hajek said. “You have to push that thought away and just enjoy every moment, because everything is temporary.”
Hajek believes that the key to making the most of this experience is staying open. He recommends that future one-year students stay optimistic and step outside their comfort zones.
“If you look at things in a positive way, there’s a good chance they’ll turn out positive,” Hajek said. “Try new things, take risks, and be open to everything—even if it’s uncomfortable at first.”
Elena Bannatyne, a sophomore from Spain, also a part of the ASSIST program, came to San Domenico with a goal of making American friends and exploring a new culture.
“I’d always been interested in American culture,” Bannatyne said. “I wanted to make a lot of American friends and try new things, like joining clubs.”
She even started a book club during her time at SD. “It didn’t really work out,” Bannatyne said, “but I’m glad I tried something new.”
Bannatyne’s year was full of memorable moments. She traveled to Los Angeles, Texas, and other parts of California. She also joined the cross country and basketball teams—two sports she had never done before—and won awards for “most improved” in JV Women’s Basketball and “MVP” in JV Cross Country.
Even though she was excited to come, the first few months were harder than expected.
“When I arrived, it hit me that I wouldn’t see my parents for four months,” Bannatyne said. “I felt really homesick at first.”
Bannatyne also noticed big differences between life in the U.S. and Spain.
“American students are more focused on college and their future,” Bannatyne said. “In Spain, people are more about living in the moment.”
Now that the year is almost over, Bannatyne says it’s important for future one-year students to enjoy every day.
“This year goes by so fast,” Bannatyne said. “Don’t spend time wishing for the past. Try new things, talk to everyone, and make the most of your time here.”
Bea Ballesteros, Erich Hajek and Elena Bannatyne aren’t just taking memories home with them, they’re leaving with a new version of themselves. In just 294 days, they faced challenges, made friends, and proved they could adapt and thrive far from home. Their stories show that just one year can leave a mark that lasts forever.
