Question about foreign exchange students

[Guest]

We have had students from Castile, Spain; Hagi, Japan; San Salvador,

El Salvador; Tcomasina, Madagascar; Copenhagen, Denmark.

Of course the experience was mixed. It really depending on how the

student “saw” Americans. This experience totally depends on your

mindset and lifestyle.

Look into the students background, ask questions on their lifestyle.

What their perception of what “America” is to them. There are

students who will abuse being a guest because they think that

Americans can purchase things at whim. One of my Japanese students

flooded the bathroom because she was used to the soaking tubs and

didn’t understand why ours didn’t work the same way. I’m Asian and

completely forgot to talk about this. Electricity bills went waaay

up. Some already knew the difference. It’s a matter of sitting down

and explaining the rules in the house, what your household does and

doesn’t do.

One student needed their time for prayer and a particular diet. At

that time, it was a hassle to prepare particular foods because I

didn’t have time. So we took an afternoon to prepare foods, everyone

in the house helped and learned. We froze the bags, labeled them so

the students could prepare them if no one was around.

I think the main idea: do you have time to do this? Are you willing

to do the extra steps to keep this student in your home? Be

communicative. Be clear on expectations, talk with parents.

Make it clear whether you will provide money or not.

I’m trying to condense it as best I can. But it’s a 2 way gift…and

there is work but it’s lessened on how prepared you are.

good luck,

nancy

— In Budget101_@yahoogroups.com, M F wrote:

>

> I would like to know if you or someone you know took in a foreign

exchange students. What culture were they from and what was your

experience. Would you suggest it to someone who never had a foreign

student. Are some cultures easier to have than other. I was told

that children from Asia are easier than from Europe. We are

considering helping out.

>

> Your input is appreciated.

>

> Melissa

>

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