Knightly News

Spanish exchange students from Colegio Bristol in Madrid experienced much of what Louisiana has to offer during the first Spanish exchange visit since the pandemic. Students and their Episcopal hosts toured Tiger Stadium, New Orleans, the Louisiana swamp and more. The young explorers cheered on the Knights football team and even had the opportunity to experience Bayou State weather when Hurricane Francine came ashore.

A Different Perspective

Senior Miniya Malone, who hosted Spanish student Ane, says the most meaningful part of participating in the exchange was making a new best friend. She also learned a lot about life in other countries. “It was so interesting hearing from Ane about the differences in life between America and Spain,” she says. “For example, we discussed how children in Spain take the surnames of both their mother and father and neither parent changes their name upon marriage.” Junior Caroline Frey agrees that the friendships created were meaningful. "Having connections with other people in different countries is such a special opportunity," she says. "I loved getting to learn new Spanish words and just more about the culture in Spain." 

Episcopal travel opportunities are designed to offer students a different perspective. “My view of the world has been expanded by getting the opportunity to learn and witness such stark cultural differences,” says Miniya. “Even though Ane and the other exchange students acted like normal teenagers similar to me and my friends, there was always something new to learn about their lives back home and how geographical differences can foster such differences in personality and daily life.” Caroline agrees. "This experience has definitely already opened my eyes about different types of people in the world and the way that different traditions shape people's identities," she says. "I hope to learn even more when I visit Spain in March."

Intentional Opportunities

Episcopal Global Travel Coordinator Amy Rome believes in the transformative power of travel. "When students travel, they learn about the places, people, and things they encounter, but they also learn about themselves. They grow and develop with every new experience," she says. Rome ensures these experiences are intentional and strategic to complement classroom learning. For example, future trips include STEM experiences, service learning and opportunities to delve deeper into specific topics, such as history, theater or music. In addition, Rome is working with her colleagues to reintroduce the French Exchange Program and the Chilean Exchange Program.

The recent Spanish exchange visit is only the beginning. In February, Episcopal host students will complete the exchange by visiting the Spanish students in Madrid. Rome says Louisiana students will get a taste of life in Spain, including a visit to Madrid de Los Austrias, El Escorial and Museo del Prado. Ziplining and Spanish dancing will also be on the itinerary.

Episcopal educators know that travel and experiencing new cultures are important in preparing students for lives of purpose and leadership, and the Spanish Exchange Program is just one of many travel opportunities available. Learn more about recent travel experiences in the blog posts below.

Deep in the Heart of Texas Campuses: Episcopal’s 2024 College Tour

The Gift of Travel Transforms and Informs

Adventures at Sea with Marine Biology Students

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2025-2026 application is now available! ​For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.