Foreign exchange programs open a literal world of opportunity for students by giving them direct experience with other cultures and languages. But exchange programs don’t only provide an opportunity for a student to spend a year getting an American education; they also allow American host families to bring a unique cultural experience into to their own homes. If you are interested in becoming a host family, here’s what you need to know.
Exchange 101
Homestays are the foundation of most exchange programs and can vary from a few weeks to a few years. The focus of the program often dictates the length and impacts the experience for both the student and the host family. In short-term programs, students stay with their host family for two to eight weeks, generally over the summer. These programs are popular with European students seeking an immersive American cultural experience. In longer-term programs, students are placed for a semester, or more often a full school year, with the purpose of getting an American education. In some cases, the student may even return to complete their schooling in the U.S.
The type of program the student chooses is dependent on the visa he or she obtains. J1 visa students are sponsored by their exchange organization and generally participate in short-term programs focused on cultural exchange. They are typically not required to pay tuition at schools, and host families are often not compensated for their involvement. Students in full-year programs must obtain an F1 visa for the purpose of getting an education in the United States. These students must be sponsored by a local school district and are therefore required to pay tuition. These programs are also usually accompanied by a stipend for the host family.
Selecting a Program
The standards and criteria required for hosting a student vary greatly from program to program. Angela Gable, a long-time host parent and former representative for Nacel Open Door explains: “As a host family you have to do your homework. There are so many things that can happen, and it’s important to choose a program where your student will be supported, as well as your family.”
No matter which program you choose, be sure you have a local representative who can help to answer questions, problem solve, and support both your family and your student. Most schools can provide the name of an agency that is looking for a host family or provide a list of the programs they sponsor.
You’ve Been Accepted!
While the application process is largely dependent on the agency you choose, it generally includes thorough background checks, clearances, and reference reviews. “The first time it can really take a while to walk through everything, but the more you host, “the simpler it gets,” says Terry Vogel, another local long-time host parent.
While there is generally no contact permitted prior to their arrival, once your application is approved you will receive a dossier on your student that includes photos, grades, and family information. Many files will also include a letter from the student introducing themselves, sharing likes and dislikes, and highlighting their goals for the experience.
Prior to arrival there are also a few arrangements to be made in your home. In-home requirements also vary by program, but all focus on providing the student with the opportunity to integrate into your daily life safely and securely. They must also be equipped with the time and space they need to complete their education. Standard requirements include a bedroom with a desk, a place for them to store their belongings, bathroom space, transportation to and from school, and quality daily meals.
A Day in the Life
While taking on a new family member may seem daunting, there is a thriving exchange community in Berks. Two local families shared their experiences and why they would both host again.
The Gable Family
Angela Gable and her family didn’t seek out their first host student. Instead, they were approached by an acquaintance who worked for Nacel Open Door. “At the time I had four young kids and didn’t think I had time,” Angela says, “but she was really persistent, and by the next summer we had agreed.” Since then, the Gables have hosted more than 15 students.
Their first experience was hosting two students from Spain and France in a short-term program. After that first summer, Angela’s contact approached her again about hosting her first full-year student from South Korea, who ended up returning for two more years to graduate from Holy Name. Angela was soon offered a position with Nacel, where she worked for nearly 10 years placing students with local families while also hosting at home.
Having exchange students in their Kenhorst home has become second nature to the Gable family. “Whatever we did as a family, they were welcome to do,” Angela says. While many of her students were very focused on schooling, they still integrated well into the family. “We don’t have a particular integration strategy; we just keep living life as usual and leave it up to them to join if they want.” She notes that while some students spent more time with the family or got involved in sports, many spent their time studying for SATs and their required international exams.
For families interested in hosting, she advised that flexibility is key. “You have to learn that there is more than one way to do things and be open to the understanding that they have lived their whole lives doing things differently. You really have to be flexible in your home life, in your schedule, and to the different experiences.”
The Vogel Family
Terry and George Vogel of West Reading hosted their first student in 2004 after spotting an ad in their church bulletin. Their current – and fourteenth — student, Ethan, has been with them for three years. He graduated from Berks Catholic in June and will be attending the University of Washington in the fall.
Like the Gables, the Vogel family soon learned that their students’ primary focus is school, but they still tried to work in “family fun days,” like day trips to Philadelphia and Baltimore or long weekends at the shore or in Washington, D.C.
At home, the Vogels mix the students right into their daily lives by inviting them to join regular activities and establishing some basic chores. “We try to treat them like we treat our children,” George explains, “but that first month people can be apprehensive. There are a lot of things you have to think about that you wouldn’t around just your family.” Terry agrees and notes that at times their students, who are usually only children, have faced challenges learning to live with siblings.
“The most important thing is meeting in the middle. You’re getting a teenager, but not an American teenager. They come from a rich culture with a long history. The student also has to remember they are getting an American family and the culture is quite different. When everyone meets in the middle, that’s when there really is success,” Terry says.
With that philosophy Terry, George, and their two children have always enjoyed the experience. “You really get an opportunity – if you take it – to learn some interesting things about other cultures.”
