Each year a very select group of high school students embark on a trip of a lifetime. They attend Cultural Classes at night during the school year in preparation for a trip to either our Sister City in Gotha, Germany or Santiago de Surco, Peru during the summer. They learn the language, culture and history of each country. This is one of the most successful programs offered by Gastonia Sister Cities. Student exchanges have been offered yearly since 1995-96 when 50 students visited Gotha for the first exchange. Now many of the original students have made German a part of their careers and continue their friendships that were made so many years ago.
2024-2025 School Year Update - trips are filled for Summer 2025 to learn about travel during the summer of 2026, please message: juliann.lehman@gastonianc.gov
At this time we are recruiting Gaston County students to travel either our Sister City in Gotha, Germany or Santiago de Surco, Peru.
Student requirements for Cultural Classes:
- Must be enrolled in a Gaston County School: public/private/charter/home school
- Preference given to those who are currently enrolled in German/Spanish language class in school, but other applications will be reviewed
- Culture and Language prep review meetings will start January-May 2025 to prepare you for travel and to serve as student ambassadors
- Culture Class Applications are competitive and are available in the link below.
- Trips will be in the end of May/first of June 2025
- Cost is based on airfare and extra side trips and can vary from year to year.
Why should I go?
- Improves understanding of cultural diversity
- Connects learning to the real world
- Gives you responsibility
- Life-changing
- It's fun!!!
Letter of Recommendation information to support your application
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Frequently asked questions about the Germany trip
Frequently asked questions about the Peru trip
Offices for Sister Cities services are located at the Garland Municipal Business Center at 150 S. York Street on the second floor.
