Santiago, a seventeen-year-old exchange student from Arequipa, Peru, embarks on a life-changing journey to Iowa, a world that feels as foreign as the language he struggles to understand. Leaving behind the familiarity of his vibrant hometown, Santiago finds himself navigating the stark contrasts of rural Midwest life, moving between two host families—one on a rural farm and another in a quaint town. At first, the cultural and language barriers seem insurmountable. Santiago feels isolated and homesick, yearning for the warmth of his family and the comfort of his mother tongue. But as he immerses himself in the rhythms of Iowa life, he discovers connection and camaraderie through soccer, forming friendships that bridge the gap between his two worlds.From the laughter shared in school hallways to the quiet beauty of cornfields under an endless sky, Santiago’s year is filled with the milestones of an American high school senior—homecoming, prom, and graduation. Yet, beneath the joy of new experiences, he also confronts the sting of discrimination, learning painful but valuable lessons about resilience and identity.. Told through Santiago’s candid and heartfelt perspective, Through the Eyes of Santiago captures the raw emotions of leaving home, the awkwardness of cultural discovery, and the profound growth that comes from stepping far outside one’s comfort zone. It’s a story of courage, connection, and the enduring power of human kindness, offering a vivid glimpse into the transformative power of cultural exchange.