Families needed to host international exchange students
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Indiana families can share American culture and traditions by hosting an international student.International exchange programs provide youth in Japan and the United States opportunities to travel and get firsthand experience with a different culture.
"Each student will have a different experience because each family has different characteristics and interests," said Pamala Morris, assistant dean/director for the Office of Multicultural Programs in the College of Agriculture at Purdue University.
The 4-H international programs in Indiana are sponsored by the Department of Youth Development and Agricultural Education at Purdue.
Not only is the exchange program a learning process for the student, but also the host family.
"Host families are able to experience a different culture without having to pack up and leave their home," said Morris. "The exchange program is a learning process where both parties share their traditions, values and beliefs."
Six Japanese students will need families for a 10-month school year program. Students will arrive at the end of July or first of August and leave in June of 2007. Approximately 60 students will be placed with host families for the four-week summer program. Dates are July 22 to Aug. 19 or July 26 to Aug. 21.
Both families and students go through a screening process. Characteristics and hobbies are matched up to provide each party with the best experience possible.
Prior to arrival, host families and exchange students will have time to communicate and learn about the other via letters and pictures. Indiana families with youth and active in the community are encouraged to apply.
Applications are available online and through Purdue Extension offices. Applications should be turned in by May 1. The Web site also has a list of frequently asked questions.
For additional information or questions about the exchange program, contact Linda Hines at (765) 494-8433 or toll-free at (888) 398-4636.
Writer: Julie Douglas, (765) 496-1050, douglajk@purdue.edu
Source : Pamala Morris, (765) 494-8293, pmorris@purdue.edu
Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722;
Beth Forbes, forbes@purdue.edu
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