A talented singer, tested outdoor athlete, and intellectual racehorse, Cotter has been graced by the presence of a new student, Jakub Klas.

Hailing from the beautiful capital of Slovakia, Bratislava, Jakub, a junior, comes from a family of four including his mother, father, and younger brother Thomas.

After viewing Cotter for an international exchange program, the family left it up to Jakub to make his move.

“It was basically my  decision. Once I learned about the program, I thought to myself it’s kind of a good opportunity to go to America for a year.”

Jakub is acclimating to his new environment. “The main difference is that you get to choose your schedule, In Slovakia the whole grade takes the same classes… but the grading scale is quite similar.”

Jakub is currently participating in cross-country for Cotter “I really enjoy cross-country, it’s harder than other sports.”

Jakub also admitted his interest in joining the Nordic ski Team, “I would like to join Nordic skiing, previously I have only done downhill skiing, I would like to try it, it’s something new.”

Jakub also has musical talent, he plays the guitar, “I started singing and playing (the guitar) four years ago, I have a band back home with some of my schoolmates.”

As for academics, Jakub is interested in architecture. “Recently I started to read articles about architecture, because it’s what I’m interested in, possibly for a career.

Asked to note a unique personal trait, Jakub had this to say: “Some people say my voice is unique, when I sing and talk, but I would say that I like to think about things, and therefore I like to discuss, to think about stuff and discuss. I like discussions, so sometimes I like religion.”

Jakub also enjoys his new ‘home’ in Winona, “I really like the people here, I’m surprised so many people already know me.”