Prof. Dr. Sandi Simpkins from the University of California, Irvine invited Prof. Dr. Marianne Schüpbach to visit the university’s laboratory from January 8 to 24, 2025, as a Visiting Scholar. The exchange with numerous scholars at the School of Education was an inspiring and enriching experience. Prof. Schüpbach was able to explore her research focus on all-day primary schools in Germany in comparison to extended education and afterschool programs in the U.S., and initiate discussions about future collaborative projects. A particular highlight of her stay was gaining insights into a certificate program at UC Irvine that prepares future educational staff for work in afterschool programs. In a concluding presentation, Prof. Schüpbach gave an overview of her research activities and findings at Freie Universität Berlin to the academic community at UC Irvine.