Some third graders at Burnett Creek Elementary School are taking a trip across the globe without ever leaving their classroom. Teacher Hannah Dunbar is partnering with Reach the World, a nonprofit organization that connects U.S. classrooms with American college students living abroad to help students learn about world cultures.

Students are getting insight on Australia from Kiana, a college student from Boston who is studying in Sydney. Kiana writes an article each week about her experiences abroad, covering topics such as local food, museums and holiday traditions. After reading, each student records and submits a short video response sharing what they learned, noting similarities and differences, and asking Kiana a question.

“One difference is the seasons,” says student Clara Tanner. “It will be summer when they celebrate Christmas and here it is winter.”

“Kiana showed us the rocky beaches and the mountains. That’s different from Indiana,” says classmate Elliott Guildenbecher. “They have some big birds and it’s illegal to pet a koala.”

The students submit their videos and then meet with Kiana on Google Meet, where she answers their questions and shares more about life in Australia.

The activity has been a meaningful way for students to discover the similarities and differences among cultures.

“It was fun to meet a new person and get to know what Australia is like,” Elliott adds.

“It was cool to see Australia outside her apartment window and see photos of the fun things Kiana was doing,” Clara says. “I want to go to Australia someday!”