Ellis Student Participates in International Exchange Program
Ashley Priore, Class of 2018, welcomed exchange student, Nina, from London’s Queen’s College this October so she could take in the sights, sounds, and happenings at The Ellis School and in the city of Pittsburgh. As part of the International Exchange Program, Nina was in town for two weeks to fully immerse herself in the Ellis curriculum and culture.
Nina was surprised by the busy class schedule and number of dress down days at Ellis, but she was particularly interested in Student Council, something not available at Queen’s College. On Heritage Day, Ashley and Nina had the opportunity to discuss life in London with Lower School students. They also led grades 2 through 4 in a game where they learned the differences between American English words and British English words.
As part of the program, Ashley and Nina will work together on a Global Leadership project. Their project will focus on the different views on immigration in both London and Pittsburgh.
Not only did Nina learn about life at Ellis, but she had the chance to visit local landmarks such as the Point, the Cathedral of Learning, and our neighborhood’s very own Walnut Street and Pamela’s Diner. Impressed by Pittsburgh’s lush landscapes, Nina was particularly fond of the towering trees and surrounding greenery in city spaces.
Nina and Ashley continue to talk online and strengthen the connection formed this fall at Ellis. Early next year, Ashley will visit Nina and her family in London. Ashley said that, while frightening, “you learn so much by throwing yourself into a new place.” She is especially excited to see Kensington Palace and the local shops. She also promised her dad that she would visit the Sherlock Holmes Museum.
Ashley was initially drawn to the International Exchange Program because of her fascination with the history and culture of London. She recalls waking up early to watch history being made during the royal wedding.
Ashley hopes to study abroad in college and is keen to travel more in the future. Ashley encourages other students to pursue international experiences because this program has provided her with more “independence in high school,” and the “opportunity to step back and see what is happening in the world.” Thanks to the International Exchange Program, Ashley has had the opportunity to not only read about a country across the Atlantic, but form a friendship with a resident her age.
Global Initiatives Coordinator Dr. Susan Corbesero has developed the Upper School International Exchange Program over the past few years to give Ellis students the opportunity to travel and learn in London or Australia. Global education has become an important addition to the Ellis curriculum across all school divisions, and Dr. Corbesero is dedicated to encouraging Ellis girls to think about and explore both local and global problems.
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