The Lee family may live in a small Midwestern town, but their family extends far beyond the borders of Dexter, MN.

After adopting their daughter Karina from Colombia, Eric and Sara had always considered hosting an exchange student.  That dream became a reality 6 years ago when they met an IE coordinator who shared Karina’s Colombian heritage. In the past six years, the Lee family has hosted three students from Colombia – Danielle Burbano (“Dani 1”) and Danielle Calvache (“Dani 2”), and Nathalia Cortes.

“We consider them part of our extended family,” says Sara.

It’s only natural, then, that the fun-loving Lees (Sara, Eric, their natural son Nils and adopted daughter Karina) sought out the opportunity to visit their Colombian “daughters” in their home country. Autumn Thorsen, another “adopted daughter” and an American friend of the Dani’s, tagged along, too.

“We are marveling at how God brings together families and friends…and friends that become family.”

In the summer of 2014, the Lees flew south for the adventure of a lifetime. They got a chance to visit both past students and to meet their current student, Nathalia – but most of their time was spent with the Calvache family and “Dani 2.”

“The Calvache family showed us their beautiful country, going to places we never thought we’d get to visit because we were ‘American Gringos.’”

The family enjoyed jungle ziplining, mountain landscapes, local markets, and a special trip to Papajan – the town of Karina’s birth mother.

“It was an emotional journey to get to visit the area where her birth mother is from,” remembers Sara.

But perhaps the best part of the Lee’s adventure was simply the bond they shared with their Colombian family.

“We were all huddled around the kitchen counter talking. The laughter could have been heard from the street!” said Sara. “Hosting has been such a gift to our family in so many ways.”

 

At IE-USA we love celebrating cultural connections and family bonds just like this one. Thank you for supporting our important work as we continue to build bridges, create connection, and foster worldwide friendships!

Will YOU join the journey?

IE-USA.org.

Imagine: your family has decided to host an exchange student! (Exciting, right?!)

As the idea becomes more concrete, you begin daydreaming about the possibilities!  You eagerly jump on the student finder  and start to scroll through applicants. Your eyes quickly glance over familiar countries: Germany, China, Thailand, Spain, Colombia…

…but what’s this one? Montenegro?!

Yes! We love our Montenegrin students, and you will, too! This 11 year old country (that’s no larger than Connecticut!) is full of character, culture, and is quickly rising as a favorite tourist destination. If Montenegro is news to you, let us fill you in!

#1 – Montenegro means “Black Mountain”

Montenegro breaks down into two words, monte negro, originating from the old Italian-Venetian language. The dark mountainous landscape is part of the country’s mysterious beauty (and great for winter sports!) Because of this terrain, roughly 60% of the country lives in urban towns and cities, many of which line the coast.

#2 – Montenegro is home to incredible beaches!

177 Montenegrin beaches line the Adriatic Sea, drawing more and more tourists every year. They show off the beauty of the Balkan region while being less crowded and less expensive than more heavily-trafficked areas.

#3 – Family ties and hospitality thrive in Montenegro!

In Montenegro, the family bond is extremely important – but they also deeply value their FRIENDS! Montenegrin hospitality rivals the best, and they will always welcome you with a kiss and a smile. Visiting guests typically bring a bottle of wine or a box of coffee as a gift.

#4 – Montenegro has a rich architectural heritage.

The architecture of this beautiful country displays a blend of influences, from Roman and Venetian to Ottoman and modern times. Of particular fame is the monastery of Ostrog, located above the Bjelopavlic valley and one of the most visited shrines in the Christian world. Carved directly into the mountainous rock, it was founded in the 17th century by Saint Basil.

#5 – The James Bond movie Casino Royale features Montenegro!

For many movie-goers, this popular film put Montenegro on the map. Ironically, the film was not actually filmed in Montenegro, but a few key scenes mention the country and highlight it’s beauty. Tourism spiked as a result of the film.

So… What do you think?

Ready to learn more from an inside source? How about adding a Montenegrin to YOUR family this year?

Join the journey!

iE-USA.org

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?'” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

This week as we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., let’s take a moment to reflect on one of his most enduring principles: serving others. While it’s easy to keep ourselves busy with our own plans and endeavors, the truth is that serving another person is ALWAYS the right choice. A step forward on behalf of another human being is never a wasted effort.

Student exchange embodies this idea in an enormous way! The simple act of welcoming another human being into your own family is an unrivaled step of faith – yet it gives blessing upon blessing. Simple, every-day things – inconsequential, really – stack up to build a huge milestone, a major accomplishment, a scrapbook full of fresh perspectives.

It’s fitting that Martin Luther King Jr. has become an icon for peace and unity. While he fought for a specific cause, the essence of his words ring true throughout ALL generations. His legacy bleeds into ALL areas of life: Equality. Liberty. Brotherhood. Understanding. If Dr. King himself walked into a home and was greeted by an exchange son or daughter – one who differs from their host parents in nationality, pigment, language, and belief – perhaps he would find a bit of his dream realized.

“Everybody can be great, because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

It’s a new year! This is the time for new beginnings! For big plans, fresh starts, and maybe even a do-over or two. It means re-evaluating what was, and making plans for what SHOULD be – and, with a little intention – what WILL be!

I LOVE the “life cycle,” if you will, of the exchange student – moving from dreams to hopes, hopes to plans, plans to reality, reality to memory. It’s a beautiful time of purpose, commitment, renewal, and discovery!

So let’s look at this slice in time – January. What does January look like for IE?

January means our current students have enjoyed 5 months with their host families! They may be wondering where the time has gone and how half the year has flown by so quickly! To the students: don’t be afraid to go all in! Make a “bucket list” of little things you’d like to do before you go home. You never have these moments again – LIVE them!

It means our host families are reflecting on their experience so far, gauging what worked and what didn’t. Loving the good. (Evaluating the difficult!) And renewing their commitment to make this year a great one! To the host families: you make all the difference! Thank you!

It means students from years past have exchanged holiday calls, gifts and letters with their American friends and families. They’re home, and the exchange year is but a memory – but their life in America forever holds a piece of their hearts, and during the holidays, they remembered. And they know they will be forever grateful.

It means our staff is eagerly reviewing new student applications! Interviews in Germany, Spain, Italy, Montenegro, China, Thailand, and around the world bring bright-eyed students before seasoned staff to talk about the greatest of all dreams – EXCHANGE.

And it means our future students are sitting on pins and needles wondering when THEY will find a new home. Who will say “yes” to a life with them in it? When will THEIR dream become a reality?

Though the cycle repeats year after year, I never tire of the meaningful change it inspires and the friendships it produces. And this exact moment in the year, though it’s subtly hidden in sleepy January, is perhaps my favorite:  It’s about DECISIONS.

Current students and families: what will you do with the time you have left? How will you fill these remaining moments?

Future students: what will you pledge to do to earn trust and friendship in the adventure that awaits you?

And future host families: Could you imagine a life with an exchange student in it? Could envision a piece of this grand adventure fitting into your home?

Dear Reader: As you ruminate on the past and plan for the present, consider student exchange. Then, join us. The journey is a gift in itself.

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or administrator, you can play a roll in developing international awareness in your school! (And Exchange Students can help!)

In our global economy, the 21st century skill set described above is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. But for so many students, study abroad simply isn’t an option. That’s where YOU can help! Exchange students can be a valuable resource for our schools, and with a nudge from you, they can realize a greater purpose while simultaneously boosting your school’s international repertoire! Win/win!

#1 – Invite exchange students to speak

Most high schools work with exchange students, so there’s a good chance you already have students in your community. Contact us to invite an exchange student to speak to your class, club, church, etc. Exchange students have a lot to give – make use of their unique perspective!

#2 – Create mentorship opportunities

Cultural awareness begins at a young age. Do you work with young children in a school or daycare setting? Do you have children of your own? Invite exchange students to share about their country and culture. Their wide-eyed audience will love it!

#3 – Host a student (or spread the word!)

The fact is, more exchange students = more frequent interaction with American classmates. And more interaction leads to greater awareness, empathy, and understanding.  Simply put – when we have more exchange students roaming the halls, everybody wins! Consider hosting a student or sharing the idea with your friends and family.

#4 – Encourage one or more students to start an international club

Whether you’re a parent or teacher, you likely know some amazing students who would rally around the idea of an international club. Fuel their fire and help them get off the ground by spurring them on toward meaningful activities. For example: international banquets, international service such as raising money to donate to a relief project or to fund an international author to make a speech, etc.

We hear it time and again: “Hosting has given our family so much!” This Christmas season we’re celebrating the lifelong journey enjoyed by BOTH exchange students and host families alike! Enjoy these heart-warming stories as they once again show that we are far more alike than we could ever be different.

The Fisher Family

Host mom Jill Fisher comes from a legacy of exchange experiences.

When Jill was in high school, her family hosted a student from Belgium. After high school graduation, Jill participated in a “gap year” exchange program to Denmark before beginning college.

“I always knew I would ‘pay it forward’ one day when the timing was right,” remembers Jill. Now, she and her husband Benjamin and their three children are enjoying their new role as hosts.

“You get to know people, and it gives you a more longterm relationship.  I’ve kept in touch with my Danish host families. A year and a half ago we were able to take the kids to Denmark and visit them. And I know that for the rest of our lives we’ll be in touch with Stina.”

The Fisher family with German student Stina

The Parry Family

When the Parry family responded to an ad seeking host families in 2009, they had no clue how much it would impact their lives!

The enthusiastic family quickly decided to host Henrik from Germany. Although it’s been 4 years since he left their home, host mom Sharon reports that they are still in constant communication with both Henrik and his parents. In addition to frequent communication by Skype and email, the families have visited one another and vacationed together multiple times, both in Europe and in the US.

“We have so much fun remembering all the silly things we did together,” remembers Sharon, “like teaching him that shouting ‘SHOTGUN’ meant you wanted to ride in the front seat of the car.  (When the kids first did this in front of him, he couldn’t figure out what we were doing. Were we going to shoot guns or what?!)”

Henrik with host brother Mitch during the holidays with a big box of German chocolate!

IE-USA Staff as Former Exchange Students!

Jan and Nives were exchange students in the US over 30 years ago.  They still visit their host moms, who are now 80+ years old!

Jan Kremer was in high school when he left the Netherlands to join the Jeseritz family in Cottonwood, MN in 1970. Nives Bakic from Montenegro stayed with the Gatens family of Indianapolis as a high school exchange student in 1980. Now married and on staff with iE-USA, this dynamic couple still has an active relationship with their host moms. (Both host dads have since passed away.) Both Jan and Nives enjoy ongoing relationships with their host families, including spending some holidays together as well as a recent trip to visit both host moms in the fall of 2014. They also maintain frequent contact with Jan’s host sister Laurie, who lives just an hour away. Left: Jan with host mom Elaine, now 80.

The holidays should be “merry and bright,” but for many exchange students this time of year can be a real struggle. This year, try getting a little goofy to stay ahead of holiday homesickness!

Don’t worry, it’s normal!

The truth is, exchange students tend to follow a predictable cycle of adjustment. Next to the culture shock of their initial entry into a new country, the holidays are often one of the most emotional times of the year.  Even previously well-adjusted students can face new challenges.

If we put ourselves in their shoes, it’s not hard to understand.  This may be the first year away from home, and now they’re approaching a holiday season WITHOUT their most precious family traditions.

Holidays = Familiar. Family. HOME.

But this isn’t the whole story! As we know from years of experience, many of our students’ favorite memories are made during the holidays. Though this season presents a very real emotional struggle, it provides just as much opportunity for engagement and connection.

LAUGHTER truly is the best medicine!

Our advice for an exchange student (and their host parents!) who may be struggling with holiday homesickness is to plan a little FUN to help enjoy the time! These 5 hilarious holiday traditions are sure to get you in the spirit!

# 1 – Ugly Sweater Contest

In recent years the “ugly sweater” craze has taken hold and has become a national phenomenon! Join the party by buying (or making!) an ugly sweater, or better yet, organizing an ugly sweater contest or party. Get your host family or friends on board for some real fun!

#2 – The Elf on the Shelf

Does your host family “do the elf”? This Christmas tradition has only been around for several years, but it’s amazing how many households are jumping on board! If the elf has made an appearance at your house, ask your host parents if you could help join the fun of planning and executing some of his adventures. If not, give it a try yourself! Your host family will find it hilarious and you’ll be surprised how much you enjoy it, too!

#3 – White Elephant Exchange

This hilarious Christmas gifting game is a must. Talk to your host parents, LC, or your friends to see about getting a group together, then have fun finding or creating a goofy gift!

#4 – Funny Christmas Movies

Cozying up at home can be just as fun as getting out. Make some popcorn, fill a mug of hot cocoa, and check out some of these favorites!

• Elf starring Will Farrell
• A Christmas Story the 1983 classic
• National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation starring Chevy Chase
• Home Alone starring Macaulay Culkin
• Trading Places with Eddie Murphy and Dan Akroyd

#5 – Christmas Caroling

Caroling didn’t start out as a “goofy” tradition, but it feels like one today! The idea of walking up to your neighbor’s houses (without being invited) and spontaneously bursting into song feels a bit out of touch with our current culture. But do you know what? Your neighbors will LOVE it, and you’ll have a blast, too. Ask your friends or your host family if they’d like to go caroling together. Learn 1-3 simple Christmas songs, wear your previously mentioned ugly Christmas sweaters, and you’ve got a party in the making!

Amidst the cacophony of post-election chatter, one truth remains evident: America has much to gain from student exchange!

Whatever else may be said about this historic election, one incredible side effect has been its power to bring people together in meaningful discussion. It’s brought us to a point of looking at our neighbors and – perhaps for the first time in many years – truly SEEING them.

Old misunderstandings previously swept under the rug have suddenly been thrust into the light. Like a great wooden spoon stirring the proverbial “melting pot,” we’ve churned ourselves up! And though we now find ourselves swirling in a sea of differences, we find that we ARE, as the saying goes, all part of the same soup. And we’ve got to make it turn out. TOGETHER.

So what does any of this have to do with student exchange?

It’s the very nature of SEEING another, no matter how varied our views, that has molded American history. And it’s arguably one of the most important goals for our future as well.

When we invite exchange students into our communities – to share in our schools, play on our teams, and sit at our tables – we invite a new perspective! We learn to see through new eyes. We share what is sacred to us and learn about that which is foreign. And in the process, we grow. There is never a downside to such an experience, because for better or worse, these interactions with the “other” will propel us forward into new layers of empathy and understanding. And we, in turn, model to our children exactly what it looks like to seek such goals. To give without asking. To love without judging.

Student exchange does all this and more.

In 2017, there will no doubt be ups and downs in American politics. But in American homes and hearts, there will also be the gifts of charity and diversity.

Will YOU join us in this journey? There has NEVER been a better time.

We talked to Roy Rolin, a 52 year old U.S. Air Force veteran. Roy and his wife Emily have hosted 10 exchange students in the last 9 years!

“They’ve all been very different in their own way,” says Rolin, “and it’s given us a unique experience every time.” (Pictured below: Roy and Emily goofing around with German student Frauke)

The Rolins, who are patriotic to the core, love sharing American traditions with their students; but they feel they have gained so much more than they’ve given.

Being a host dad has given Rolin the opportunity to fill much-needed support roles for his students. He discovered the joy in becoming a true father-figure for a German girl whose dad had passed away when she was only 7. He embraced the role of mentor for a Swiss boy who nervously anticipated his own (compulsory) military service upon his return home. And he relished the surprise of a lifetime when a previous exchange student, their Colombian “son,” appeared unannounced in his living room for a surprise visit.

“We are building a worldwide family,” says Rolin, whose students have come from 8 different countries including Korea, China, Italy, Colombia, Brazil, Germany, Switzerland, and England.

The exchange year is a fun adventure, but the Rolins have found that the role of host parent doesn’t end there. As evidence of their continuing parenthood, participated in their Italian “son’s” wedding in Septemberof 2015.

“Instead of a honeymoon, they took us, together with their natural parents, on a week-long tour of Italy,” boasts Rolin. “We’ve gained so much more through hosting these students than we could ever have given them.”

Are you ready to share YOUR America with a student? Find out where a journey in student exchange can take you!

Take the first step by visiting iE-USA.org!

Dear Host Family,

Please be patient. 

I’m from another culture, so I don’t always know how to behave here. 

I’m still learning English, so I don’t always know what you’re saying.  

I’m a teenager, so I don’t always make the best choices – even if I really think I’m trying.

I’m not perfect, and I will probably let you down.

But I’m here because I want to learn.

Don’t give up on me yet.  I need you more than you know. 

Forever in Your Debt, 

Your Exchange Student