Full Circle Moments: From First Student to Lifelong Connection, Japan
In 2019, Luke welcomed his very first homestay student, Yuma from Japan, who spent eight weeks studying at Hamilton Secondary College. Like many first-time homestay experiences, it began with a little nervousness — especially during the airport pickup — but it didn’t take long for everyone to settle in and feel at home.
During Yuma’s stay, Luke and his family introduced him to everyday Australian life. They bonded over the family dogs, shared meals like schnitzels with gravy, and took part in weekend parkruns. One of the highlights of the stay quickly became a weekly tradition: Eggs Benedict and iced coffee at Luke’s favourite café.
When it came time for Yuma to return home to Japan, Luke made him a promise — if he ever came back to Adelaide, there would always be Eggs Benedict and iced coffee waiting for him.
Six years later, in December 2025, that promise came full circle.
Yuma returned to Australia with his girlfriend Sakura as part of a 12-month adventure. While travelling, they spent Christmas in Adelaide with Luke and his family. True to his word, Luke’s first stop with his returning guest was the café where their tradition began. The visit also included familiar favourites such as schnitzels, a Christmas Day parkrun, and plenty of time catching up and reconnecting.
After their time in Adelaide, Yuma and Sakura continued their journey to regional Victoria to try fruit picking during the Australian summer — experiencing the country in a very different way, including some very hot 45-degree days.
For Luke, hosting Yuma was the start of something much bigger. That first experience gave him the confidence to continue as a homestay parent. Since then, he has hosted more than 20 students and says he is grateful he said yes to the opportunity all those years ago.
Stories like Luke and Yuma’s highlight what makes homestay such a meaningful part of the international student experience. It is more than simply providing accommodation — it is about sharing everyday life, building traditions and creating connections that can last long after a student’s program has finished.
