Step One to a Great Exchange: Preparation

As a host family, you will receive the Host Family Handbook and other orientation materials. They outline policies and procedures and provide valuable information on what to expect and how to make your exchange experience most successful.

You will be invited to orientation sessions before and during your exchange. There you will have the opportunity to talk with local volunteers, get to know other host families and their students, and develop strategies to ensure that every member of the family gets the most out of your exchange.

We are very proud of the extraordinary support provided to every student and host family. You and your family can count on caring, qualified support every step of the way.

From Challenge to Growth

Adjusting to life in a new country isn't always easy - so what will it be like?

• Stage 1: Excitement - everything is new, interesting, and thrilling.
• Stage 2: The thrill is gone - daily life sets in as the student becomes a part of the family and community.
• Stage 3: How can people live like that! Homesickness is bound to kick in at some point. Students may long for the comfort of their own way of life.
• Stage 4: Time is short - let's go! The exchange experience does have an end and there are so many things to do and people to meet.
• Stage 5: I feel "at home." Students may achieve a truly bi-cultural level. Able to see and react to situations like a native of both their home and adopted land.