The Ursuline Academy of Dallas Global Relationships Program is a cornerstone of the school's commitment to fostering cultural awareness and global friendships. For students who choose to host international student delegates from our sister schools, the experience is life-changing, creating bonds that transcend borders. Here, three Ursuline students share their host stories, highlighting the unique joys, surprises, and lessons they learned as part of this program.

• Caroline Mcgough ‘25
• Cecilia Spencer ‘25
• Makayla Baxter ‘27

Embracing the World at Home

When asked what inspired them to host a student from a sister school, each host shared a sense of curiosity and a desire to build connections. Makayla, who hosted students from Taiwan, Chile, Brazil, and England, said, “From the moment I applied to Ursuline, the Global Program intrigued me. Hosting gave me the chance to experience the world through the eyes of a teenage girl from another country, creating friendships that will last a lifetime.”

For Caroline, the opportunity was deeply personal. “After traveling to London and being welcomed so warmly by my [Wimbledon] host family there, I wanted to return the favor. Hosting during Halloween, Ranger Day, and Homecoming season made it even more special!”

Lessons Beyond Borders

Hosting is not just about welcoming a guest but learning from them. From her Taiwanese sister Alisha, Makayla discovered the value of appreciating simple things. “She was fascinated by squirrels! It reminded me not to take the everyday for granted and to embrace the beauty of cultural differences.”

She also learned the power of connection from her Chilean delegate. “Trini taught me how something as simple as a card game can bring joy. Playing Polilla Tramposa together showed me that laughter and fun can break any barrier.”

Family, Redefined

One of the most surprising aspects of hosting, all the students agreed, was how quickly their visiting sisters felt like family.

“Joy, my English sister, is an only child. She was nervous about having three host siblings, but by the end of her stay, she told me my family felt like hers,” Makayla shared.

“It’s amazing how two lives that seemed so separate can become intertwined. Hosting reminds me how our connections shape our reality and expand our understanding of the world,” Cecilia said.

Unforgettable Moments

Hosting brings countless fun memories. Makayla recalled a game night with Trini sharing, “She gave us gifts from Chile, including a card game called Polilla Tramposa. We laughed so hard trying to hide cards without getting caught—she won every round!”

Cecilia cherished taking her Brazilian sister to a Jon Pardi concert. “We danced to our favorite songs, explored the Fort Worth Stockyards, and even laughed about a barbecue mishap—I hadn’t realized she didn’t eat meat! Despite the chaos, those moments became unforgettable.”

Advice for Future Hosts

For students considering hosting, the message is clear:
“Do it!! I encourage every Ursuline girl to apply to be a host and/or go on a delegation trip. The Global Relationships Program at UA is one of the many things that make our school unique—you won’t find opportunities like this anywhere else! Hosting an exchange student is such a fun way for your family to grow together and learn something new!” said Caroline.

Cecilia added, “Don’t hesitate to involve your family and friends in the experience. Group plans with other hosts and their guests make the best memories.”

Makayla shared those sentiments – “Hosting is a wonderful way to connect with the world around you through girls your age. Through hosting, I found my love of traveling and getting to know people from those countries.”

The Start of a Lifelong Journey

The UA Global Relationships Program is more than an opportunity to meet students from around the world. It’s a chance to build bridges, grow as individuals, and experience the beauty of global sisterhood. Each host leaves the experience with a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of humanity and with a network of friends, now sisters, spanning the globe.

For those ready to embrace the world, Ursuline Academy’s Global Relationships Program awaits.