A World Beyond the Classroom: Thornton-Donovan’s Japan Travel Study Exchange

One of the most meaningful parts of life at Thornton-Donovan is the opportunity for students to experience the world firsthand. Through our long-standing sister school exchange program with Japan, students do more than visit another country. They build real relationships, learn through immersion, and develop a global perspective that stays with them long after the trip ends.

After recently welcoming visiting students from Japan to our campus community, Thornton-Donovan is excited to continue the tradition through the reciprocal travel study experience abroad. This program is designed to give students an authentic look at daily life in Japan by pairing them with host families, providing meaningful cultural experiences, and creating opportunities to connect with peers in a partner school setting.

What makes this travel study experience special

Students aren’t simply touring landmarks. They are living the exchange:

• Host family immersion: Students stay with local families, experiencing daily routines, meals, and traditions in a way that can’t be replicated in a classroom.

• School connection: Students spend time in a partner school environment, attending classes and engaging alongside Japanese peers.

• Cultural exploration: The experience includes cultural activities and excursions that may include parks, temples, farms, museums, and other local sites.

• Friendships that last: The exchange is built on connection and community, helping students form meaningful international friendships and return home with a broader sense of the world.

Who can participate

The exchange is open to students in grades 8–12, offering an age-appropriate opportunity for students to grow in independence, confidence, and cultural understanding.

A signature Thornton-Donovan opportunity

Travel Study at Thornton-Donovan reflects who we are as a school: curious, connected, and committed to learning that extends beyond the campus. Experiences like this help students grow academically, personally, and socially while developing the kind of perspective that prepares them for college, careers, and life in an increasingly global world.

We look forward to sharing photos and highlights as this next chapter of the exchange continues.