Members of the Rotary Club of Carson City will get a glimpse into a foreign exchange student’s experience in Carson City at the next club meeting. Brazilian exchange student Arthur Fernandes will be the featured speaker at the luncheon, which takes place Tuesday, May 26, at noon in the Brewery Arts Center’s Grand Ballroom. The public is invited to attend.
Fernandes will share his impressions and experiences since arriving in the U.S. last August. “I have really enjoyed traveling,” he said. “Some of my best experiences have come from meeting new people in different parts of the state and country.”
At Carson High School, Fernandes is a junior and participates on both the tennis and swim teams.
He noted that getting involved in school activities here differs from his experience back home. “Here I can sign up for activities I was interested in. For example, I made my schedule here in the United States and chose sports, which I couldn’t do so easily in Brazil.”
Fernandes also shared that one of the biggest surprises has been the food. “I didn’t expect such a fast-food culture — everyone loves fast food!”
Rotarian Peter Fishburn highlighted that Fernandes, like all exchange students, plays a key role in fostering cultural understanding. “Hosting an exchange student is a life-enhancing experience for the entire family,” he said. “The experience for both the host family and the student is a win-win. Families feel like they’ve gained another son or daughter and feel proud to serve as ambassadors for our country and state, teaching students about Carson City.”
Students, in turn, share their own culture — everything from daily life and cuisine to language and traditions — offering hosts a chance to see their own hometown through a new lens and become more globally aware. Fernandes added that these experiences often lead to meaningful friendships and lasting connections.
Anyone considering hosting an exchange student is encouraged to attend the meeting. To do so email carsoncitynvrotary@gmail.com. The Brewery Arts Center is located at 449 West King Street in Carson City.
