I had never considered housing a foreign exchange student until my senior year of high school. Prior to senior year, I had my reservations. Or, in hindsight, excuses. They all ranged from living arrangements to the language barrier to the fear of a year-long commitment.
However, in the second semester of my senior year, a close friend approached me. There were ten unclaimed German exchange students, and would I please consider fostering one for three weeks? With the beginning of 2016 and my new perspectives of a “fresh year” and “try different things”, I shrugged and said yes.
That was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
Admittedly, yes, it had a bumpy start. The foreign students’ plane landed behind schedule, and then there was the initial awkwardness of a stranger living in my house for three weeks. However, by the end of her visit, I realized that all of my reservations were ridiculous.
The living arrangements? I gave her my bed and I slept on the couch. The language barrier? Her English may have been a bit broken, but she spoke the language better than some Americans I have met. Not to mention that the short three weeks made me wish that she had stayed with me and my family for a year.
I will be the first to admit that the host family and the exchange student will not always be a perfect match. A few other exchange students had trouble with their host families-- particularly my student’s close friend. However, I believe that the risk of housing a “bad apple” should not deter you from meeting a great person and partaking in a wonderful experience. Also, you will not be alone in this endeavor: you will have a community of other host families and exchange students, as well as your own friends by your side.
Hosting a foreign exchange student will open your eyes to an entirely different world that exists beyond home. You will be introduced to a new culture, a new language, and a variety of different opinions. Remember: we drive for eight hours and we see another McDonald’s. They drive for eight hours and find themselves in an entirely different country.
So, as a new school year approaches, if possible, consider hosting a foreign exchange student. Whether long-term for an entire school year or short-term for a few weeks, you will not regret the decision. I know that I could not have asked for anything better. She and I could not stop crying when the time arrived for her to leave.
Also, ask the exchange students what their opinions are of America-- that is always fun.