Host a Foreign Exchange Student

"Our family began hosting students from all over the world when our oldest daughter, now 29, was in the 6th grade. For us, it was a way to bring the world to our kids when money to travel was scarce. These unique and colorful cultures came to life in a very personal and meaningful way for our daughters. As the girls grew up, they embraced differences in a positive way, and a passion to travel and experience how others live grew within them. As teens and adults they have studied, traveled, served, and worked in various countries, visiting many of our students along the way. The bonds we have made with our students are strong, for they have had much impact in molding our daughters’ attitudes and hearts towards others."

"I have hosted students through CHI since 1988. I was hesitant at first, but as most families that have tried it, I discovered the benefits have far outweighed the inconveniences. Most of the students have been Japanese and at this point there have been over 20 staying with our family. On the most part they have all been respectful, considerate, and appreciative. I wasn't expecting how emotionally attached you can become in such a short amount of time. Ten years ago I was able to travel to Japan and met up with about 8 of my 'girls' during a 2 week time. I stayed with two of their families. It was an experience of a lifetime. About a year ago my oldest son married a girl who was here in CA visiting from Japan. I wondered if maybe a seed had been planted through his years with our CHI students. I highly recommend the experience to other families."

"Our family has hosted students every year for about the past 10 years. We've enjoyed the experience thoroughly. It's become a family tradition to host a short-term student every summer and in the month of December. Everyone in our family looks forward to hosting and it's a highlight every year for us. In addition to hosting every year, I have now been a Teacher Coordinator for two years. It's even more fun to spend time with the students in the classroom getting to know all of them and building relationships with the accompanying teachers/chaperons. I also love learning about other cultures. Being involved with CHI is helping to fulfill my desire to travel (until I can spend the time and resources to do the real thing) by bringing the world to me."