Embrace Global Cultures: Host an Exchange Student This Fall

As the fall season approaches, communities across the United States are preparing to welcome international high school students from diverse backgrounds. These eager learners, representing over 50 countries, are not just here to attend school; they are excited to immerse themselves in everyday American life, learning about traditions, and forming lasting bonds with their host families.

What’s Involved in Hosting

The ASSE International Student Exchange Programs invites American families to become volunteer host families. This unique opportunity not only enriches the students’ lives but also offers host families a chance to experience their own culture through fresh eyes. Imagine sharing your family dinners, holiday celebrations, and local events with a young person from a different country. Such exchanges have a way of creating lifelong friendships that transcend borders.

Building Lifelong Connections

For students from countries such as France, Japan, Germany, and Australia, participating in this exchange goes far beyond academics. It's a holistic journey where they can enjoy family life, partake in school activities, and engage in community events. Host families may view the students as temporary guests, but over time, these international learners often feel like part of the family.

Saphia Lesch, ASSE Midwestern Regional Director, emphasizes the enthusiasm students have for meeting their American host families, stating, "Start the journey today and create lifelong memories and friendships.” Preparing to welcome an exchange student means being open to new cultures and perspectives.

Who Can Host?

ASSE encourages families of all kinds to consider hosting: married couples, single parents, and even individuals. No prior hosting experience is necessary. ASSE selects students based on their academic achievements and personal qualities, giving host families the opportunity to choose a student whose interests align with their family's lifestyle. This thoughtful pairing enhances the experience for both parties, helping build connections based on shared interests.

The Responsibilities of a Host Family

One of the attractive aspects for host families is that exchange students come equipped with their own spending money for personal expenses, alongside comprehensive health, accident, and liability insurance. This significantly lessens the financial responsibilities on the host family. ASSE also provides community representatives to support families and ensure a rewarding experience for everyone involved.

The Broader Impact

Hosting an international student extends beyond the household; it brings global perspectives into local classrooms and neighborhoods. Students facilitate experiences that cultivate empathy and understanding, bridging not just cultural gaps but fostering connections that are crucial in our increasingly globalized world. By participating in this program, host families contribute to a greater cause—creating a community enriched by diversity.

Study Abroad Opportunities

In addition to hosting international students, ASSE also provides American students with opportunities to study abroad, offering semester-long, year-long, and summer programs. These experiences enable youths to gain independence and enhance their language and cultural skills, equipping them with valuable tools for their future.

If you’re intrigued by the prospect of hosting an international exchange student this fall or are an American student looking to broaden your horizons abroad, the ASSE team is ready to assist. Interested families can begin their journey by reaching out via phone or email, or visit ASSE's website for more details. Together, let's create a world with deeper understanding and vibrant cultural connections, one home at a time.