Being an exchange student through American Cultural Exchange Services (ACEST) means the thrill and excitement of spending a year overseas in a new country. It means living with an American family, attending a new school, and forming friendships that will last a lifetime.
Every year hundreds of exchange students from around the world — Kenya, South Africa, Germany, Spain, Ecuador, China, and Thailand — flood the airports eagerly waiting to meet their new family.
Why do students participate in this program? The top reason is an opportunity to learn about American culture and experience firsthand who Americans really are. So many students only know of America through TV, propaganda and movies. Once ACES students connect with their host family, they quickly realize how different Americans are from that of the TV, or media portrayal.
Host families learn about different cultures, traditions, and how there are so many similarities among the various cultures in the world today. Here are just a few of the testimonials from host families and exchange students:
“Their time spent with us is never forgotten, but we still continue to create these friendships. This is one of the most amazing opportunities that International Journeys has given to us. We don’t plan on stopping to show exchange students America through our eyes, as well as learning about theirs! We have many extended families in Germany, Italy, China, and France and will continue to grow.” The Moore Family
“I must say, having a French student for a few weeks last summer was the best. In fact, it was probably the best summer I had ever had because we filled it with everything fun we could think of. … And the student I hosted liked to cook, so I enjoyed French desserts the entire visit. I felt very spoiled. We also did a few things that cost money, but most everything we did was free. I highly recommend this experience. Do it. You won’t regret it.” The Chandler Family
“For me, transition from Pakistan High School into American High School was one of the most exciting aspects on my exchanging year, a journey I’ll sure cherish. Things that are not bought with money, friends and a new family. As now it is about the end of my exchange year and it is hard to believe that time runs this fast.” Salima ACES YES Student
The pure joy of making a new friend and having a son or daughter or brother or sister from another country is one of the many benefits of sharing one’s life with an exchange student. American families also have an unforgettable experience Let’s build a better global community one student at a time.
Host families are needed in the Redding Community for the 2015-2016 School Year. To learn more about hosting go to www.exploretheoworld.org or contact me, Maria Chamberlin at mchamberlin2001@gmail.com
Maria Chamberlin, M.A. is the local coordinator for American Cultural Exchange Services.
