For Marta Castano, coming to Hemlock from Spain was more than a change of location. It was an opportunity to grow, learn, and experience life in a completely new way. Marta chose to become a foreign exchange student because she wanted to improve her English, learn about other cultures, meet new people, and gain independence. What she found along the way was a second home.
Before arriving at Hemlock, Marta was involved in many activities in Spain. She has played basketball for many years, participated in swimming when she was younger, and also spent time competing in tennis and dance. That athletic background made joining school sports in the United States a natural step, but it also came with surprises.
Marta shared that her teammates played a major role in helping her feel welcomed. She said they make her feel confident and comfortable, allowing her to laugh and talk freely with them. One of the biggest differences she noticed between school sports in Spain and the United States is the number of spectators who show up to support teams. The energy and fan support at games left a strong impression on her.
During the fall season, Marta was part of the volleyball team and quickly embraced the team culture. She said she loved that even when mistakes were made, teammates were always there to cheer each other on and help one another improve. That same sense of support has continued into basketball season, where Marta says she is having a lot of fun and appreciates how kind everyone has been. Having played basketball for so long, she enjoys continuing the sport at Hemlock while experiencing it in a new environment. Once again, the large crowds and enthusiastic fans have been one of the most surprising differences compared to playing in Spain.
Looking ahead to the spring, Marta plans to try soccer and is excited to have fun while learning a new sport. When reflecting on what she will remember most about being a student athlete at Hemlock, Marta said the most important lesson is learning how to support teammates by cheering them on and helping them when they make a mistake.
Marta is especially thankful for her host family, who have made her feel truly at home even while being far away from Spain. She is grateful for the people she has met, the experiences she has gained, and the sense of belonging she has found at Hemlock. For Marta Castano, Hemlock has truly become a home away from home.