Becoming a foreign exchange host family is a lot of work. Well, there is a complex system in place to try to make it easier for you. Let’s look at the steps involved:
Sit down and decide as a family whether or not this is right for you.
Do you have enough space for another person to live in your home for a year? Are you financially able to provide for another person? Are you available emotionally to accept the responsibilities that come along with making an addition to your family? These are the questions you need to ask before jumping into anything. Also, make sure that everyone is on board. If your son or daughter isn’t completely sold, talk as a family and see whether or not this is the best decision for all of you.
Choose a foreign exchange program.
There are so many options out there for foreign exchange programs, so it’s best to do your research. Don’t sign up for the first one that pops up in your internet search. Find the one that best fits the needs of your family. It might be helpful to find some family friends who have been through the experience and see what they have to say about the selection process.
Complete your application.
This can take several months to process, so it’s important to get started well in advance. Whatever program you choose is going to want to make sure that you are up to the task. Make sure you are honest, and let your personality come through whenever possible. This will help you stand out from the other applicants and be matched with a student who will be a good fit for your home.
Choose your student.
Many foreign exchange programs will narrow down a few students they feel will mesh with your family, and then let you select the lucky candidate who is going to be sitting across the breakfast table from you. Make sure to thoroughly read the biographies that are sent your way. The more you know about your potential foreign exchange student going in, the easier you will be able to aid in the transition from their culture to yours.
