More Than English: How Summer Camp Changed One Student’s World

Each morning began in the classroom, where campers developed their English through reading, writing, speaking/listening, and American culture classes, along with hands-on experiences in subjects such as art and science. But much of the learning happened outside the classroom, too!

Afternoons and weekends gave students opportunities to experience life in Wisconsin and beyond through swimming, kayaking, shopping, mini golf, trips to Chicago, amusement parks, and other activities. Cultural Exchange Night gave students the chance to proudly share traditions from their own countries, while the Talent Show encouraged them to step outside their comfort zones and share something of themselves with their new friends.

For many students, however, the most meaningful part of camp was not a particular class or excursion. It was discovering what they were capable of when they found themselves surrounded by new people, new cultures, and a new language.

Riko, a camper from Japan, arrived at WLHS as the only Japanese student in the program. She was excited about coming to the United States, but wondered whether she would really be able to communicate in English.

It did not take long for her to realize that camp was going to require her to take a risk. “I strongly realized if I don’t take the initiative, nothing is going to happen!” Riko reflected on her experience.

Sometimes students would speak their native language with friends from the same country, so Riko had to learn to enter conversations herself. She approached students in the dorm, joined groups, asked questions when she did not understand, and continued trying even when her English was imperfect.

Her philosophy became simple: “Even if I make mistakes, I’ll use all the grammar I know and just try to get my message across!”

It worked!  Riko made friends from countries including Mexico, Brazil, Spain, Russia, Thailand, Germany, and the United States. At the end of camp, her fellow students even voted her “Friendliest Girl.”

Looking back, Riko said the experience gave her what she jokingly called an “unbreakable mental strength.”  More importantly, it changed the way she saw the world.  “If you find the courage to take that first step, your whole world can change!”

By the end of her three weeks at WLHS, Riko was seriously considering attending an American high school or studying abroad for a full year. She said the experience made her interested in a future career connecting people from different countries and cultures.

Her final assessment was simple: “It was truly the best three weeks of my life!”

Back in Japan, Riko’s parents were experiencing camp from a very different perspective.

Neither of her parents speaks English, and sending their daughter overseas naturally came with concerns. Regular communication, photos, videos, and updates helped reassure them that Riko was fully immersed in the experience during her time in Milwaukee.

When Riko returned home, her family noticed something bigger than improved English.

She began talking about the different cultures, school systems, languages, and friendships she had encountered. Her parents were especially moved that their daughter, who had entered camp as the only Japanese student, had connected so successfully with students from around the world.

Her mother reflected: “The fact that she was able to overcome her hesitation, fit in with everyone, and be recognized by her peers will, I believe, remain a lifelong asset for her.” That is what the English Excellence Summer Camp is ultimately about.

We thank God for the students, teachers, Activity Leaders, and Wisco Friends who made the 2026 camp such a memorable experience. We are grateful to welcome students from around the world into the Wisco family and excited to see where the friendships and growth that began in Milwaukee will lead them next.