When families decide to host an exchange student, they know there are some commonly expected benefits, such as helping a young person explore a new culture and the joy of sharing their home and their country’s customs. However, beyond these lies many unexpected benefits – particularly impacting the parents’ personal growth.
From the moment my exchange year ended and I bid farewell to Uruguay in 2020, I knew my return was imminent. Although, back then, it felt no more than a distant dream.
For high schools across Australia and New Zealand, welcoming an international exchange student into their community is a step towards cultivating a more inclusive, diverse, and globally aware educational environment.
In an increasingly interconnected world, the value of international understanding and cultural exchange has never been greater. The rich history of YFU and its commitment to cultural immersion mean that YFU remains a top choice for Aussie high school students seeking an overseas exchange experience.
Embarking on a High School Student Exchange Program with YFU is stepping into a new life with unknown adventures and totally unique learning experiences. Exchange is a journey that offers profound life lessons and changes you in ways that only the exchange experience can.
This is a time for mixed feelings, so be prepared. You are happy to return home but also sad that your exchange has ended. How is it possible to feel so happy and so deeply sad at the same time?
Embarking on an exchange program with YFU is an exhilarating adventure that promises new friendships, experiences, and memories to last a lifetime. The journey to a successful exchange takes preparation and setting realistic expectations about what to expect.
YFU’s mission to bring about change through cultural exchange is only made possible through the dedication and passion of our network of volunteers here in Australia and worldwide.Â
Going on exchange is NOT a holiday. It is experiencing a new culture from the inside, making new friends, becoming part of a new family and a journey of self-discovery. So, how do you ensure you make meaningful connections while on exchange?
Are you ready to say yes to exchange but find yourself caught in a whirlwind trying to choose the perfect destination? Selecting the right country for your exchange isn’t just about spinning a globe and pointing blindly (though that sounds fun!). It’s about aligning your personal aspirations, interests, and dreams with a place to turn them into reality, challenge you and allow you to find the YFU YOU.
Opening your home to a young person from another country might seem daunting. However, hosting a high school exchange student can be a very enriching and rewarding experience for a family. You will see the world through someone else’s eyes, broaden your family’s horizons, help foster global understanding and break down cultural barriers just by being a family!
Learning to speak another language is more than just a new skill! It is a gateway to being part of a new culture, unlocking new learning skills, personal growth and achievement, enhanced travel experiences, greater career opportunities, and so much more!
Embracing the role of a host sister with YFU has been transformative, shaping me into the individual I am today.
A few handy tips for future exchange students from India R. – one of the YFU returnee’s who went on exchange to Norway.
Our new YFU Student Exchange brochure provides an introduction, guiding you through the initial details of our student exchange program options.
