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Living for a period of time in the United States can be a unique experience full of contrasts. Life varies greatly depending on the state and city you are in: from vibrant metropolises like New York and Los Angeles, with their cosmopolitan cultures, to the tranquil landscapes of the Midwest countryside or the warm and welcoming atmospheres of the South.
American society is extremely diverse, with a strong emphasis on individualism and innovation. There is a sense of freedom and possibility, but also a certain competitiveness. It's easy to be struck by the conveniences of everyday life, the efficiency of some services and the vastness of the country, which offers everything from beaches to deserts, from mountains to skyscrapers.
The contact with people of different cultures and the opportunities for personal growth make the experience an unforgettable adventure.
American high school structure
In the United States, high school generally includes four years, from ages 14 to 18:
• Freshman year (9th grade): the first year.
• Sophomore year (10th grade): the second year.
• Junior year (11th grade): the third year.
• Senior year (12th grade): the last year.
Education is compulsory until age 16-18 (depending on the state), and the main goal of high school is to prepare students for university, college, or the world of work.
A PERSONALIZED PATH TO GROW IN SAFETY
American students must take some compulsory subjects (core subjects) to obtain the diploma, but they also have considerable flexibility in choosing optional courses (electives):
• Mandatory subjects:
- English (literature, writing, composition).
- Mathematics (algebra, geometry, calculus).
- Sciences (biology, chemistry, physics).
- Social studies (US history, world history, economics, government).
- Physical education.
• Electives: art, music, computing, theater, foreign languages, psychology, and many others.
Many students also choose AP (Advanced Placement) or college-level courses (dual enrollment) during their final two years to earn college credits.
A PERSONALIZED PATH TO GROW IN SAFETY
The school year in the United States generally begins between late August and early September, and ends in May or June, with some variation depending on the state or school district. It is divided into two semesters or four quarters. There are main pauses such as:
• Fall holidays (Thanksgiving, end of November).
• Winter holidays (Christmas and New Year, two weeks).
• Spring holidays (Spring Break, March/April).
• Summer holidays (June-August).
SUMMER PROGRAMS
Academic performance is evaluated through letter grades:
• A (excellent): 90-100%.
• B (good): 80-89%.
• C (sufficient): 70-79%.
• D (insufficient): 60-69%.
• F (failure): below 60%.
The average grade (GPA - Grade Point Average) is fundamental for admission to college. Students obtain the High School Diploma at the end of the 12th year, which is necessary to access university.
DUAL DIPLOMA
American student life is vibrant and often centered around extracurricular activities that include school sports, clubs, and various student organizations. They also organize many events such as school dances (such as the prom which is the classic end-of-year dance or the homecoming which is the dance organized around October to celebrate the start of the school year).
These activities help students develop social skills, leadership and create a strong school community identity.
UNIVERSITY ORIENTATION
American schools offer a range of services to support students: they pay close attention to cultural, gender and disability diversity and offer programs for students with special needs (Individualized Education Program, IEP).
The figure of school counselors helps with personal, academic problems and university orientation. For foreign students, they offer integration programs through English courses (ESL - English as a Second Language).