Exchange students enjoy Cedar Hill experience

Cedar Hill—Cedar Hill High School seniors Byron Cupido and Juliette Vandenbrouck are halfway around the world from their homes in Western Europe. In addition to focusing on academics, the two CHHS exchange students have found ways to become involved in fine arts. 

Cupido, a 17-year-old from Holland, joined the Cedar Hill High School Theatre Program, while Vandenbrouck, an 18-year-old from Belgium, is part of the Cedar Hill High School Cheer squad. 

The family of CHISD parent John Nelson hosts both seniors. The Nelson Family has hosted exchange students for the past two decades. 

“It’s a good experience,” Nelson said. “We love to have the kids here. It’s great to have kids who are active with everything that’s going on at school. We travel and try to give the exchange students the full experience of the United States.” 

The exchange students have traveled to Nebraska and California, and an upcoming trip is scheduled for Colorado. 

Cupido was involved with theatre in Holland, but it was separate from his school there. 

“I’m used to doing activities outside of school,” Cupido said. “Cedar Hill Theatre is fun but it’s really hard work.” 

Cupido enjoys the small-town feel of Cedar Hill and its proximity to Dallas. However, the weather was an adjustment at first. 

“When it’s not too hot, it’s nice,” he said. 

Cupido plans on attending college in Holland next year to study economics or law. 

Vandenbrouck wanted to try cheerleading since it’s not a program they had in Belgium.  

“It’s like dance and gymnastics at the same time,” Vandenbrouck said. “It’s cool; I like it.” 

As she adjusts to being part of the cheer program, Vandenbrouck has interacted with her fellow cheerleaders as a member of the Junior Varsity squad. 

Vandenbrouck’s first language is French, and she had to adjust to the way Americans travel locally.  

“It’s way different than Europe,” Vandenbrouck said. “You need the car to be able to get around.” 

Vandenbrouck plans to study Architecture in Belgium in college next year. 

SOURCE Cedar Hill Independent School District