Is American schooling and Australian schooling different?

I'm from Australia and I'm doing a student exchange program which starts in august and I'll be staying in the USA for 5 months. I'm 15 this year so I think I'll be put in Sophmore? What are the differences between American and Australian schooling and do Americans like Australians?

• Answer:

  I don't know what it's like to go to school in Australia, but here kids start their formal education (kindergarten) when they are 5 or 6 years old. One generally must be five years old to start by late August/early September. So, depending on when your birthday is, you are likely to be placed in a sophomore class (also called 10th grade here) or possibly a freshman class (9th grade). Students go through 12th grade to complete high school. After this, some go to college or a vocational school, while others find a job. To learn more about going to school here, I'd suggest checking out the school's website to get a sense of the classes, extra curricular activities available, etc.  Like Travis said, I think that people will be interested in you and what it's like to live in Australia. They'll be interested to know your customs, your lifestyle, food you eat, and how life is different in Australia compared to the US. I think you'll find us a friendly group of people. I hope you enjoy your time here!