Tyler Van Backer

Hometown: Wilmington, VT

Year: 2006

Why did you choose to participate on an Experiment program?

There were two main reasons that I wanted to participate in an Experiment program. Primarily, I wanted to improve my Spanish. Secondly, I wanted to live with a family in another country and become part of their daily life, instead of just studying Spanish and staying in a hotel.

What was your most meaningful experience while on your Experiment program?

Realizing how much of a part that I had become of my homestay family. I had never expected the strong connection that I had with my family to occur in only two weeks.

What was the highlight?

One of the millions of highlights for me was going to a sports club and playing padel for the first time. I remember how absolutely horrible I was the first couple games that we played. Another highlight was playing soccer with my brother and his friends against these older guys. We beat them!

How did you feel about The Experiment's immersion-based approach?

I really appreciated the homestay. I remember just sitting and talking with my brother, sister and their friends. We shared stories and talked about things we liked to do. As simplistic as it seems, I learned the most about Spanish culture because of it.

How did your group contribute to the experience?

My group made me realize how different people are within the US. This realization compelled an even closer look at the similarities and differences between my host brother and me.

If you had one thing to say about why a prospective student should choose EIL, what would it be?

The programs EIL has to offer are incredible. Everyone in my group loved their families and we all were crying when we had to say good-bye.

What advice would you give to a student about to embark on an Experiment summer program?

Be open to new experiences. Going to another country, even if English is spoken, can be full of new experiences and surprises. I never expected to be playing padel with my brother's professional padel trainer and, more importantly, develop such a close connection with another family.

In today's world, why is it important for young people to consider participating on an Experiment program?

In today's world, it seems that people are quick to make stereotypical judgements of those who are different. The only way to fully understand a culture or country is to live WITH the people, IN the culture and go through the daily routines of these wonderful people.