10 Helpful Things You Should Know When Hosting An Exchange Student 

Save to Find It Later!

10 Helpful Things You Should Know When Hosting An Exchange Student 

Welcoming an exchange student into your home is a unique and rewarding experience that comes with its own set of responsibilities and expectations. I would know, I was an exchange student! And I’ve heard all sorts of stories about families wanting to host but not being ready for what it really means.

Understanding their needs and perspectives can make the difference between a good and a great exchange experience both for you and them. Here are some helpful tips for Americans thinking about hosting an exchange student, based on feedback from families and exchange students.

1. Understand They’re Not Household Help

Remember, your exchange student isn’t there to help with chores, babysit, or keep you company all the time. They’re in your home to learn about your culture and language. They can do these things and they should participate to the household life with tasks such as cleaning and vacuuming but these shouldn’t their main job. Their main job is to be a teenager and experience the culture. Treating them as a member of the family rather than an employee sets the foundation for a positive experience for both of you.

2. Support Their Participation in School Activities

Exchange students are often encouraged to join school events to fully immerse themselves in the experience. That often means that you’ll need to pick them up and drive them to competitions, etc. Being willing to drive them to these activities or accommodate their participation is key. If this seems like too much, hosting might not be for you. An exchange student isn’t supposed to just sit at home.

3. Include Them in Your Life

These students want to learn and connect with you. Bringing them along on outings, whether it’s a trip to the grocery store or a family event, helps build this connection. It’s an easy way to include them in your daily life and culture.

4. Acknowledge Their Courage

Moving across the world at 16-18 years old takes bravery. Recognizing the challenge they’re facing and offering your support can help ease their transition and make them feel more at home.

5. Be a Key Part of Their Exchange Experience

You play a crucial role in their exchange journey. The effort you put into making their stay memorable and enriching can profoundly impact their experience and perception of your country.

6. Treat Them Like Family

View hosting an exchange student as a temporary adoption. Offer them the same love, guidance, and support you would your own children. Remember, they’re not maids, au pairs, or tourists in your home.

7. Respect Their Awareness of Rules

Exchange programs thoroughly brief students on what’s expected of them while abroad. you wouldn’t believe all the things I was told by the program before coming to the USA. If a student seems to be pushing boundaries, it’s more likely an issue of them not fully embracing the opportunity rather than ignorance of the rules. Remember also that some exchange students had no desire to travel and instead, were pushed by their parents. That can sometimes lead them to try and break the rules.

8. Allow Communication with Home

It’s essential for exchange students to stay in touch with their family and friends back home. I’ve heard of families (and seen it first hand) forbidding their exchange student form any communication with their family and friends back home. Cutting off this communication doesn’t aid in their integration; it can do more harm than good. Encourage them to maintain these important connections. Of course, there is a balance to be had to be able to integrate and make friends in the USA.

9. Be Patient During Transitions

Adjusting to a new country can be overwhelming. Be supportive as they navigate their “firsts” in the U.S. Understand that it takes time to adjust, and with your support, they will find their footing.

10. Be Mindful of Dietary Changes

It’s common for exchange students to gain weight due to the difference in food and eating habits. Be supportive and understanding. Reassure them that they can return to their usual habits once they’re back home.

12 American High School Things Europeans Think Are Much Better

Read More: 12 American High School Things Europeans Think Are Much Better

12 American Dress Code Rules In High School That Shock Europeans

Read More: 12 American Dress Code Rules In High School That Shock Europeans

13 American High School Things That Shock Foreigners

Read More: 13 American High School Things That Shock Foreigners

16 Surprising Differences Between French And American High Schools

Read More: 16 Surprising Differences Between French And American High Schools