Janice Lozano
Hosting an international student is a rewarding experience that offers a unique cultural exchange and the opportunity to form lifelong bonds. Host families open their homes to students from diverse backgrounds, treating them as members of their family and providing a nurturing environment. The process involves an application and screening procedure, followed by the selection of a student, and finally, integration into the host family's daily life. By embracing cultural differences and sharing experiences, host families gain valuable insights into new cultures while also offering a glimpse into their own way of life. This exchange fosters global citizenship, broadens horizons, and leaves lasting impressions on both the host family and the international student.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of students | Almost 2,000 students from around the world come to the US every year |
| Countries represented | Students come from over 90 countries |
| Host family composition | All types of families are encouraged to apply. Families can have small or teenage children, be empty nesters with adult children, or be couples with no children. Single adults and single parents are also welcome. |
| Host family requirements | Host families are expected to provide students with three meals a day, transportation to and from school and school activities, and the opportunity to participate in family events and daily life. |
| Host family expenses | Host families are not paid, but they are entitled to a tax deduction for each month that a student stays with them. |
| Student expenses | Fees such as secondary medical insurance, school enrollment, and travel expenses are paid by the student's family or scholarship. |
| Host family application | The application process includes a background check and a home check. Host families must complete a brief application form that asks for general information about family members, the home, and the community. |
| Student selection | Host families can choose a student based on shared interests, hobbies, faith, or cultural background. Local coordinators provide student profiles and suggest students who may be a good fit. |
| Communication before arrival | Host families and students can get to know each other through email, video chat, social media, or phone calls. |
| Orientation | A required host family orientation is conducted before the student arrives to address cultural differences, program rules, and common challenges. |
| Community | Host families and students can connect with other participants in the program through volunteer-run events, field trips, and meals. |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Getting to know your student before they arrive
Start a dialogue
Use email, social media, international messaging apps, or phone calls to begin communicating with your student. This will allow you both to get to know each other and create a sense of familiarity before they arrive. You can learn about each other's personalities, interests, hobbies, and cultures.
Exchange pictures and videos
Share pictures and videos of your family, friends, and hometown with your student. This will give them a better idea of what to expect when they arrive and help them visualize their new surroundings. Similarly, encourage your student to share media of their own family, friends, and hometown so you can get a glimpse into their world and the people they hold dear.
Learn about each other's cultures
Food is often a significant part of cultural exchange. You can learn about your student's culture by exploring their cuisine, whether it's cooking traditional dishes together or trying out restaurants that serve their native cuisine. Beyond food, there is a lot to discover about each other's cultures, from phrases and language nuances to customs and traditions. Embrace the opportunity to broaden your horizons and gain a deeper understanding of their background.
Attend orientation sessions
Before the student's arrival, the hosting organization will typically conduct orientation sessions for host families. These sessions address cultural differences, program rules, and potential challenges, providing valuable information to help you navigate the hosting experience successfully. They also offer an opportunity to meet other host families in your area, creating a support network as you embark on this journey together.
Explore common interests
As you get to know your student, look for common interests, hobbies, or passions that you share. This can be anything from sports to music, art, literature, or outdoor activities. Building on shared interests can accelerate bonding and create a sense of camaraderie as your student feels a connection to your family and your way of life.
Remember, the goal is to create a warm and welcoming environment for your international student, making them feel like a valued member of your family even before they arrive.
International Students: Your Path to US Citizenship
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Preparing your home for an international student
Create a Comfortable Space
Provide your student with a comfortable and nurturing home environment. This includes a suitable bedroom and access to a bathroom. Ensure the space is clean, tidy, and welcoming. Make sure the student has a comfortable bed, adequate storage for their belongings, and perhaps some decorative touches to make it feel homely.
Prepare for Daily Needs
As a host, you'll need to provide your student with three meals a day and transportation to and from school and school activities. Discuss any dietary preferences or restrictions they may have and be open to trying new cuisines together. It's also helpful to involve them in daily routines and chores, so they feel included in the family dynamic.
Encourage Cultural Exchange
A significant aspect of hosting an international student is the cultural exchange. Be prepared to share your culture and learn about theirs. This can include trying new foods, learning some phrases in their language, and sharing traditions and customs. Encourage open dialogue and create a safe space for questions and discussions about cultural differences.
Establish Clear Communication
Before the student arrives, establish clear and open lines of communication. Use email, video chat, social media, or phone calls to get to know each other. Discuss expectations, daily routines, and any concerns they may have. This will help ease their transition into your family and create a smoother adjustment process.
Address Practical Matters
Ensure you have all the necessary practical arrangements in place. This includes completing any required background checks, home checks, and providing accurate information about your family, home, and community. Work closely with your Local Coordinator, who will guide you through the process and answer any questions. They will also conduct a host family orientation to address cultural differences, program rules, and potential challenges.
CPT Work Options for International PhD Students in the USA
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![African Chebe Hair Growth Gel [Pack of 2 - Cream - 1.4 oz.]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61RTm2ko7pL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Cultural Exchange Madina Mango Butter Scented Fragrance Incense Stick Bundle [85 Sticks Per Pack - Brown - 11"]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81cn1dCr3hL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Cultural Exchange Madina Jamaican Fruit Scented Fragrance Incense Stick Bundle [85 Sticks Per Pack - Brown - 11"]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81pv4U9xEsL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Understanding your role as a host family
Hosting an international student is a rewarding experience that allows you to welcome a young person from another country into your home and share your way of life with them. It is a cultural exchange that can broaden your family's horizons and create lasting bonds. As a host family, you play a crucial role in providing a comfortable and nurturing environment for your student. Here are some key aspects to consider when understanding your role:
Providing a Welcoming Home
Offer your student a comfortable and safe living space. This includes providing them with a suitable bedroom and access to daily necessities. Make them feel at home by welcoming them as a member of your family. Encourage them to participate in family activities, meals, and events, allowing them to immerse themselves in your daily life.
Cultural Exchange and Learning
International students are eager to learn about your culture and share theirs with you. Embrace cultural exchange by learning about their traditions, customs, and language. Engage in conversations about their country and experiences. Be open to trying new cuisines, whether it's cooking traditional meals from their country or exploring international restaurants together.
Support and Care
Offer the same level of care, support, and comfort that you would provide to another family member. Be there for them as they navigate living away from their family and adapting to a new environment. Support their academic endeavours by ensuring they have the necessary resources and assistance. Help them navigate any challenges they may face during their stay.
Transportation and Meals
As a host family, you are typically expected to provide transportation for your student to and from school and school activities. Ensure that they have a way to get to their various commitments and offer them the option of using public transportation or providing rides, depending on what is feasible for your family. Additionally, provide your student with nutritious meals, usually three meals a day.
Communication and Orientation
Before your student arrives, participate in a host family orientation conducted by the Local Coordinator. This orientation will address cultural differences, program rules, and potential challenges. Stay in communication with your student before their arrival to begin building a relationship. Utilise email, video chat, social media, or phone calls to get to know each other and create a smooth transition into your family dynamic.
Respect and Boundaries
Establish clear boundaries and expectations to ensure a respectful and harmonious living environment. Remember that your student is also navigating their own boundaries and may be experiencing living away from home for the first time. Work together to create a space where open communication and mutual respect are prioritised.
By understanding and embracing your role as a host family, you will create a positive and impactful experience for both your family and the international student. It is a unique opportunity to foster cultural exchange, form meaningful connections, and create lasting memories.
Understanding Credit Scores: A Guide for International Students
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![African Chebe Shampoo & Conditioner Hair Strengthener Set [Natural - 8 oz.]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71mIKisnVYL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Cultural Exchange Madina Egyptian Musk Incense Bundle [100 Sticks Per Pack - Brown - 11"]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/717w8cwkDsL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Essential Palace Miswak Natural Honey & Moringa Herbal Toothpaste [Pack of 2-6.5 oz.]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/815d-hkuoJS._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Cultural Exchange Mason 2B1 ASK1 Color Swirl Silicone Bracelet [Pack of 2 - Blue/Gold - 8"]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/7182lqjNh6L._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Cultural Exchange Sigma Gamma Rho 3-Pack A Embroidered Stick-On Applique Patches [Blue - 2"]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81seZgE4lAL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Sharing your student's culture and learning about theirs
Before the student arrives, you can start getting to know them through email, video chat, social media, or phone calls. You can ask them to share pictures of their family, friends, and hometown, and you can do the same so they know what to expect when they arrive. This will help you both start bonding and learning about each other's cultures. You can also ask your Local Coordinator to provide you with student profiles and an introductory letter from the student.
Once the student arrives, you can continue to learn about their culture by including them in your daily life and family events. You can also meet other host families and students for volunteer-run events, field trips, and home-cooked meals to build a community and learn about each other's cultures.
Remember that the more opportunity the student has to experience your life and culture, the better. Be open to sharing your traditions, customs, and routines with them, and encourage them to do the same. This will create a mutually beneficial cultural exchange and help you form bonds that can last a lifetime.
International Students: African Tax Returns Explained
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![African Chebe Oil Hair Strengthener [Gold - 2 oz.]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51H7446Le5L._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Cultural Exchange Order of Eastern Star Color Swirl Silicone Bracelet [Pack of 2-8"]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51EIc-aBniL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Cultural Exchange Eastern Star Text Decal Plastic License Plate Frame [Black - Car/Truck]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61V2J8hUv8L._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Cultural Exchange Alpha Phi Alpha Founders Faces Lapel Pin [Gold - 1.375"]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71R2wGz+AHL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Cultural Exchange Sigma Gamma Rho Rose Flower Reflective Symbol Decal Sticker [Gold - 4.75" x 3.625"]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71FkhsB+o9L._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Building a community for your student
Get to Know Each Other Beforehand
Before your student arrives, take advantage of technology to start building a relationship. Use email, social media, international messaging apps, or video chat to communicate and get to know each other. This will make the transition smoother and help you both feel more comfortable when the student arrives.
Orientation and Support
Ask your Local Coordinator to conduct a host family orientation before the student's arrival. This will help you address cultural differences, understand program rules, and prepare for any challenges that may arise. Take advantage of the support network provided by the exchange organization, which includes volunteers who arrange activities for exchange students. This will enhance the student's experience and provide opportunities for them to meet others in the community.
Share Meals and Activities
Sharing meals and activities is a great way to build community. Host families often get together for volunteer-run events, field trips, and home-cooked meals. These gatherings create a sense of comfort, kindness, and connection for both the students and the host families. It also provides an opportunity for the students to try new cuisines and experience different cultural traditions.
Extend Your Family
Think of your student as an extended family member. Include them in your family's daily life, events, and routines. Offer them the same care, support, and comfort you would give to any family member. This sense of belonging will help them feel part of the community.
Build Lasting Bonds
By hosting an international student, you have the opportunity to form bonds that can last beyond their stay. Host families often develop close relationships with the student's family, and some even visit each other long after the student has returned home. These connections expand your global community and create a network of support for both the student and your family.
Encourage Community Involvement
Encourage your student to get involved in the local community. This could include participating in extracurricular activities, volunteering, or joining community events. These activities will help them meet people outside of the host family and make connections within the wider community.
ESL Students: Taking a Semester Off in the USA
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
There are no specific requirements to become a host family. Families with small children, teenage children, or no children at all can apply. Single adults and single parents are also welcome. All potential host families must pass a background check and home check.
Host families are expected to provide international students with three meals a day and transportation to and from school and school activities. Other costs, such as family trips, group outings, and personal items for students, are at the host family's discretion.
Host families are provided with student profiles that include general information about the student and an introductory letter. After background checks have been cleared, host families gain access to additional information, including student photos, videos, and a letter from the student's parents. The host family can then select a student that fits best in their home.
Host families are expected to provide a comfortable, nurturing home and treat the international student as part of the family. They should also ensure that the student knows how to contact their family, friends, and support networks.
Host families can start getting to know their students through email, video chat, social media, or phone calls. They can also attend a host family orientation that addresses cultural differences, program rules, and solutions to common challenges.
