This fall, BASIS Independent Fremont embarked on an extraordinary journey—one that brought five students from BASIS International School Bangkok to the Fremont campus and community for nearly three weeks. From October 12 to 30, Prann, Tiantian, Jiban, Panpan, and Titi became part of the BASIS Independent Fremont community, bringing with them the vibrant spirit of Thailand and a shared commitment to academic excellence that defines the BASIS Curriculum worldwide. 

As we reflect on our inaugural BASIS Curriculum Schools Exchange Program, we want to share the story of how this transformative experience unfolded—the vision that inspired it, the students who made it possible, and the rich tapestry of experiences that filled nearly three unforgettable weeks. 

A Vision Beyond Borders 

The BASIS Curriculum Schools Exchange Program represents more than just an educational partnership—it’s a commitment to preparing our students for an interconnected world. The program aims to empower students to think beyond borders by combining a rigorous, internationally benchmarked curriculum with meaningful cultural engagement and dynamic, joyful classrooms. Through immersive experiences, students explore the world and return with broader perspectives, all rooted in our culture of excellence and respect. 

“This exchange program represents our commitment to developing global citizens who can navigate and contribute to an increasingly interconnected world. By bringing together students from BASIS Curriculum Schools across continents, we’re creating opportunities for authentic cultural exchange and lasting friendships that extend far beyond the classroom,” shared Mariam Abodouma, Head of School at BASIS Independent Fremont. 

Dr. W, Head of School at BASIS International School Bangkok, echoed this sentiment: “We’re thrilled to partner with BASIS Independent Fremont on this inaugural exchange. Our students eagerly anticipated this opportunity to experience American education firsthand while sharing their own perspectives and culture.” 

Before we share the details of this remarkable journey, hear directly from our Bangkok visitors about their experience at BASIS Independent Fremont: 

Meeting Our Visitors 

Our five visiting students arrived on Sunday, October 12, ready for an adventure that would span nearly three weeks. Each was thoughtfully matched with a BASIS Independent Fremont host student to create meaningful connections and ensure our Bangkok visitors would have guides who could help them navigate both the academic rigors of BASIS Independent Schools and the cultural nuances of life in the Bay Area. 

A Comprehensive Experience 

The exchange program was designed to offer immersive experiences across multiple dimensions. Over the course of their stay, our Bangkok students would shadow classes across grade levels and subjects, participate in hands-on science labs, and join in campus traditions such as Diwali celebrations and Homecoming festivities. Beyond the classroom, they would explore premier academic institutions, including UC Berkeley and Stanford University, and experience iconic Bay Area destinations from San Francisco to Santa Cruz. But most importantly, they would build genuine friendships with their host families and classmates—connections that would prove to be the heart of the entire experience. 

Week One: Building Connections 

The first days of the exchange set the tone for what would become an unforgettable experience. After arriving on Sunday, our visitors and their host families gathered for breakfast—a warm welcome to California. The day continued with a visit to Meta headquarters, offering a glimpse into the innovation that defines Silicon Valley.

Monday brought an excursion to Berkeley, where students toured the prestigious UC Berkeley campus, sat in on a college class, and explored Telegraph Avenue’s eclectic shops and bookstores. For many of our visitors, this was their first glimpse of American university life—an experience that opened conversations about international educational pathways and future possibilities. 

The week continued with a Tuesday evening potluck that brought all the host families together, Wednesday’s cooking class at Cucina Bambini where students learned to make macarons alongside new friends from BASIS Independent Silicon Valley, and quintessential California experiences such as rock climbing and apple picking. 

Thursday, October 16, marked the first day our Bangkok visitors joined classes on the BASIS Independent Fremont campus. The timing couldn’t have been better—Friday brought the school’s Diwali celebration, a perfect opportunity for cultural exchange as our visitors participated in the festival of lights alongside the Fremont community. The joy and energy created an immediate sense of belonging. 

“It was really lucky that I got to be here on the Diwali celebration… I think I got to learn a lot about Indian American culture and how light is their symbol of hope.” – Tiantian 

That first weekend showed how host families had fully embraced their roles. Saturday’s San Francisco adventure included a bike tour, ferry ride, exploration of the Presidio, and treats at Ghirardelli Square. Sunday brought the thrills of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, followed by an evening of making rangoli and continuing Diwali celebrations with host families. 

These experiences reinforced what was already becoming clear: this exchange was about more than scheduled activities. It was about the moments in between—the car ride conversations, the shared laughter, the growing comfort that comes from spending time together. 

By the end of that first week, our Bangkok visitors were no longer guests—they were part of the BASIS Independent Schools community. They knew their way around the Fremont campus, had inside jokes with their host siblings, and were forming friendships that extended beyond their matched pairs. 

“My host family was very nice. They welcomed me very warmly and tried some Thai traditions to make me feel welcome. And they also tried making Thai food for me, which was very nice.” – Panpan 

 “I loved my host family so much. If there was a lottery, I won the lottery…I feel like it’s a very tight family. Everyone shares everything together. My host mother is always asking me how my day has been and every single detail about my day, which is normally what I do with my mom back at home…I felt very included. They all tried to make me feel included.” – Tiantian 

Week Two: Deepening Engagement 

As the second week began, our Bangkok students were fully integrated into campus life. Monday, October 20, brought a guided inquiry lab with Subject Expert Physics Teacher Dr. Dixit, where students discovered Hooke’s law through hands-on experimentation. The universal language of science created a natural space for collaboration and learning across cultures. 

Tuesday found students on the soccer field, where the competitive spirit and teamwork transcended any language barriers. Wednesday offered another opportunity to participate in Diwali rituals, deepening their understanding of this meaningful celebration. 

Thursday’s field trip to Stanford University opened new horizons, allowing students to explore another prestigious Bay Area institution and envision their own educational futures. That same day, students enthusiastically joined the Mole Day celebrations on campus, competing to create the best artistic representation of this chemistry holiday. 

The highlight of Week Two was undoubtedly Homecoming. Friday’s pep rally brought all the energy and school spirit that defines this American tradition. That evening, our Bangkok visitors experienced their first Homecoming dance—a milestone moment that perfectly captured the cultural exchange at the heart of this program. After the dance, students gathered at a host home to enjoy s’mores and pizza together, the kind of simple, joyful moment that creates lasting memories. 

The weekend continued with Saturday’s visit to the stunning BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in San Jose, where students marveled at the intricate architecture and learned about Hindu traditions. Sunday brought a tour of Apple Park and local shopping, followed by a farewell potluck with host families—a bittersweet acknowledgment that the exchange was entering its final days. 

The Final Week: Cherishing Every Moment 

The last few days together took on special significance. Students participated in an eyeball dissection lab, and classes held their own farewell celebrations, complete with impromptu dance parties that captured the joy and connection these students had built together. Wednesday evening brought goodbye family dinners, where host families and visitors reflected on the journey they’d shared. 

Thursday morning arrived too quickly. At the airport, farewells mixed with promises to stay connected. These weren’t just polite goodbyes—they were the genuine emotion of people who had become family. 

More Than an Exchange 

Throughout it all, students were discovering that despite coming from opposite sides of the world, they shared far more than divided them—the challenge of their coursework, the excitement of Homecoming season, dreams for the future, and the universal language of teenage humor. 

This exchange proved what we believed from the start: that bringing students together across borders creates transformative experiences that extend far beyond academics. The relationships that formed, the lessons learned, and the impact on both our visiting and host students will resonate for years to come. 

In our next post, we’ll share deeper reflections on what this exchange meant for everyone involved—the personal growth, cultural insights, and vision for the future of the BASIS Curriculum Schools Exchange Program. 

This is the first in a two-part series about our inaugural BASIS Curriculum Schools Exchange Program. Click here to view Part 2.