Getting Started

You might think you need a separate bedroom, but this isn’t always necessary. Some students will feel more comfortable with their own room and space, but younger students often prefer to room with a family member close to their own age (same sex, of course). If sharing rooms, clear some closet space and a few drawers for the exchange student. Empty a shelf or drawer in the bathroom for their personal items. If you do have a separate bedroom, provide clean, comfortable linens, pillows and blankets, a few empty drawers, some closet space and hangars.

Learn a little about the country they are from. If possible, communicate with them prior to their arrival via email to learn their likes and dislikes. Some students might have food allergies or food preferences, pet allergies, or some other issue the host family should know ahead of time. Sometimes foreign exchange students wish to use a more American name while they are in this country, so it would be helpful to know this in advance. Learn about their culture and perhaps a couple of words in their native tongue. English is the language they are in the U.S. to learn, so make sure they have plenty of opportunities to use it.

If you pick them up from the airport, have a sign written with their name on it and perhaps the word “welcome” in their native language. This helps them to easily find you in a crowded airport or gathering area. Introduce your student to your family and friends and provide future opportunities for them to get to know one another during their stay. Make the initial meeting a happy and positive experience.