Following in his dads footsteps, 15 year old Felix Ladenburger is in Minnesota for two months on an exchange trip, attending St. Paul Academy and Summit School, living with junior Lark Smith.

From a small city in Germany called Stuttgart, Ladenburger has known he would be coming to SPA for almost 5 years. “Because my dad came here, to SPA, as an exchange student 30 years ago and so it was natural, I knew 5 years ago that I was coming to SPA for two months,” Ladenburger said.

Ladenburger noted one of the biggest differences that he has experienced in Minnesota is the school system. From the classes to the teachers, he has really enjoyed his time at SPA. “The difference between SPA and German schools is that the teachers are much nicer and we have less different periods here than in Germany,” Ladenburger said.

Not only does Ladenburger attend classes day to day, he also plays Junior Varsity soccer. Although he is not allowed to play in games, due to SPA and MSHSL rules, he has gotten to know the players and gotten a lot out of the training sessions. “Soccer has been fun, it’s of sad that I can’t play in games,” Ladenburger said.

Although he is only here for two months, Ladenburger has had a great time at SPA so far.  “I like it very much. It is a lot better than at home,” Ladenburger said.  “I like the students, and the social interaction, and the classes.”