By Lexi MooreLast year, Tomasz Bezak left his native Poland for 10 months of school in America to practice his English skills and learn more about the American way of life. Tomasz grew up with his family in a small community in Poland, so he hasn’t had any problems adjusting to life in Hills. He arrived at the home of Merle and Robie Horsman in August, just in time for a family vacation to the Black Hills. He said he enjoyed the South Dakota scenery and the weather during that trip.The hardest part about his transition to life in America has been adjusting to the language. Although Tomasz can speak and understand fluent English, he said Americans often speak too quickly. Tomasz said he was happy to find cable television and a Playstation at his new home in Hills, and he’s looking forward to playing with a new soccer team. He said teenage boys in Poland enjoy many of the same activities as those in America.This is the first time Merle and Robie Horsman have participated in a foreign exchange program and said they’re pleased with the experience. "It is just like having another son around the house," she said. Their three children are enjoying the new addition to the family, and the entire family is working hard to show Tomasz what American culture is about. Because Halloween is not celebrated in Poland, the Horsemans want him to get the full experience while he is here. Another cultural difference is driving age. Drivers must be 18 to get a permit in Poland, so Tomasz plans to get some early practice while he is in America.