Forever Changed with Foreign Exchange

WRITTEN BY SIERRA DRAKE

Have you ever studied abroad or hosted a foreign exchange student? Do you remember having a foreign exchange student at your high school? If so, you are one of the lucky people who fully understands what a life-changing experience it can be. Learning about another culture, language and country enriches life in a beautiful way. There are lots of opportunities to get involved with foreign exchange in our local community.

When I was a child, my family hosted multiple exchange students from many countries including Japan, Russia and Spain. I remember thinking that it was a normal part of life to have people from other countries come to live with you. I have fond memories of learning how to make Origami cranes and teaching the students from Russia how to rollerblade in our driveway.

As a college student, I was inspired to study abroad and lived with a family in Ecuador. Not only did I improve my Spanish, but I gained a family forever. After my original study abroad, I stayed in touch and eventually made my way back to Ecuador again. As an adult, I also had the chance to host a foreign exchange student from Denmark when my kids were very little. This time, I got to be the host mom and provide love and support for Emilie, my daughter from Denmark. While we have yet to visit her in Denmark, she came back to see us again a few years after her initial study abroad. She loved her time in Montana and looks forward to another visit sometime soon.

Bozeman, Montana is a very special place, with its endless opportunities for outdoor pursuits and the stunning mountain views. I am fortunate to be a foreign exchange matchmaker who pairs Montana families with brave international teens. Volunteer host families make foreign exchange students’ dreams come true while creating a life-changing, global adventure for themselves.

Anaelle Goubet, a foreign exchange student from France, is currently attending Gallatin High School. “Being an exchange student is the most amazing experience I have had so far,” she said. “I learned a new language and discovered a new culture. I have friends who I hang out with and who make me laugh. I found a new family on the other side of the world. My host siblings are now just a brother and a sister to me. We spend hours together playing games and Nerf battles. We went skiing together. I also love the weather here. I always had dreamed to live in a place where it snows. I love representing my home country, helping them discover dishes from France and teaching them the language. It makes everyone realize that even on another continent, we almost have the same life. I will be forever thankful for all the wonderful memories I have and the friendships I’ve made.”

Her host mom Dena Knutson says, “Being a host family is just a wonderful experience. The opportunity to experience another culture is always fun and interesting.”

Being a host family means that you provide a room and meals and treat the student like a member of your family. You do not need to have teens or even kids at home, empty nesters and single parents are welcome to apply. Host families get to hand-select their student by reading letters and looking at profiles to find a good fit. Students already speak English, have their own health insurance and spending money, and can’t wait to find out who their family will be for their year abroad.

Please contact me to learn more about hosting a foreign exchange student or participating in a study abroad. I can help you form a forever family with an international student. With your support, we can change lives, inspire global adventures and bring the world closer together.

Sierra Drake is the Southwest Montana Local Coordinator for International Cultural Exchange Services. For more information, email sdrake@icesusa.org or visit www.icesusa.org/host-a-student-overview.