For students in Bryan and College Station, the world is more connected than ever. But truly understanding and thriving in a global society requires more than just virtual connection, it requires real-world experience. That’s where cultural exchange comes in.
Through the B/CS Sister Cities program, students gain far more than stamps in their passports. They experience life in another country, build relationships with peers from different backgrounds, and return home with a renewed sense of purpose, confidence, and global awareness.
What Is Cultural Exchange?
Cultural exchange programs allow high school and college students to travel to partner cities abroad and immerse themselves in another culture. Often, these exchanges involve living with a host family, attending school or local events, and participating in activities that highlight the community’s history and traditions.
For students from Bryan and College Station, destinations include our sister cities of Bastogne, Belgium; Greifswald, Germany; Salamanca, Mexico; and Toruń, Poland. Each of these locations offers students a deep and meaningful opportunity to engage in cultural learning and global friendship.
Why It Matters for Students
Cultural exchange isn’t just a travel opportunity, it’s a life-changing experience that prepares young people for a successful future. Here’s how:
- Developing Cultural Awareness: Students learn to appreciate other cultures, challenge stereotypes, and see the world from multiple perspectives.
- Building Independence: Living abroad teaches teens how to adapt, solve problems, and navigate unfamiliar situations with confidence.
- Improving Communication Skills: Whether it’s learning a few phrases in another language or overcoming cultural misunderstandings, students strengthen both verbal and nonverbal communication.
- Enhancing College Applications: Participation in a cultural exchange demonstrates leadership, curiosity, and a commitment to learning—traits that stand out to admissions officers.
- Creating Lifelong Connections: From new friendships to global networking, students return with a sense of global citizenship and empathy.
A Parent-Approved Program
For parents, the B/CS Sister Cities program offers peace of mind. Students are supported throughout the process, from orientation and travel logistics to safety procedures and host family matching. Many parents report that their children return home more mature, open-minded, and ready to tackle college and beyond.
Voices from Abroad
Past student participants often describe their exchange as “eye-opening,” “life-changing,” and “the best experience of my teenage years.” Whether it’s sharing meals with a host family, attending a local festival, or simply navigating a new public transportation system, every moment offers personal growth.
How to Get Involved
If you’re a parent or student in Bryan or College Station, now is the time to explore the opportunities available through B/CS Sister Cities. You can also support our mission by making a donation to help fund student exchanges and global education programs. Whether you’re interested in traveling abroad, hosting a student from another country, or volunteering with our programs, there are many ways to be part of this global connection.
Visit our website to learn more, view upcoming exchange opportunities, and hear directly from students who have taken the leap into international exploration.
Cultural exchange isn’t just about visiting another country, it’s about discovering your place in a connected world.
About B/CS Sister Cities
Recognizing our role in the global community, the purpose of the B/CS Sister Cities is to facilitate mutual cultural understanding, education, relationships and technical and economic development exchange. We do this through events and programs that connect international students with local host families. We love travel, mentorship, and cultural exploration, and we believe these experiences enrich the lives of students and our community alike.
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Contact Us:
P.O. Box 4733
Bryan, Texas 77805
bcssistercities@gmail.com
Bryan-College Station Sister Cities 
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