Hosting a Foreign Exchange Student

Answer 1

One of the most rewarding experiences a family can have is to act as a host for an exchange student. Exchange students come from foreign countries all around the world and are paired up with a host family for several months or sometimes longer. While they are here in the United States, they become part of the family that has agreed to act as sponsor.

Most of the time, the exchange students are of High School age and the host family has at least one child that is approximately the same age as the visiting young man or lady. The parents are responsible for the health and well being of the exchange student just as they must look after their own child or children.

Language differences can sometimes be a problem, but more often than not, the exchange student speaks English or the host family is conversant in the native language of the exchange student. The agencies that make arrangements for this international make a considerable effort to match students with the most appropriate families possible.

The biggest adjustment that both the exchange student must make is being able to adapt to a new culture. Parents can help by preparing some meals that are native to the student's homeland and being available to answer any questions or deal with any problems the exchange student may have assimilating in to American culture.

Probably the most helpful way to help the visitor feel comfortable is to include him or her in all of the normal family activities. During the day there is school. The host's child or children will be by the side of the exchange student to help them throughout the school day. Little things like getting lunch or finding your way to class can be confusing to someone from a foreign country. Patience and friendliness are two qualities that a host should possess. While the exchange student may be quite capable of looking after him or her self, an accident or illness can occur at any time. Mothers, being mothers always know what to do when a child needs help. Whether the exchange student just needs some bed rest and a bowl of chicken soup or they have to go to the hospital, the host parents should be able to provide the right care and advice.

The longer the exchange student is around the better the chance that a close relationship will flourish. Soon, the student may become almost like a member of the family. When the time comes to go, the relationship does not suddenly end. The parents, family and exchange student may create a life-long bond and keep in touch for many years to come.