By Marla Ballard
Reporter
bamabell62@gmail.com
HOST FAMILIES NEEDED FOR EXCHANGE STUDENTS
Cat Findley, of Valley Head, has signed up to host two high school exchange students for the upcoming school semester. One student is from Italy and the other from Brazil. Findley said she’s an empty-nester and will enjoy having young people in her home again.
The foreign exchange student program began in the late 40s, with the goal of fostering a culture of cooperation and understanding among peoples and nations. The purpose of this program is to provide students with the opportunity to study in a different country and environment experience the history and culture of another country and meet new friends to enrich their personal development.
The screening process, for the host family, includes; criminal background check, checks for any reports of child abuse, home checks and visits from representatives of the exchange program, and five references. The exchange representatives along with the host family work diligently to make sure the “fit” is good for both the visiting students and the host person\family. Findley said it is important that the students fit well into the hosts' lifestyle.
The program places two or more students into a home, making sure that the countries in which they are from are not currently at great odds with each other. Students are able to communicate in English, although generally not their first language. Hosts provide a home and food. Students bring funds with them for entertainment and clothing needs.
Findley said her student that is coming from Brazil will be in for a huge cultural difference. The student is from Sao Paulo where the metro population is over 22 million, making it the world’s fourth-largest city by population. “Valley Head will definitely be a big change,” said Findley. “The student from Italy had never spoken to a person whose native tongue was English until we spoke on the phone,” Findley added the support and cooperation from the school system and community has been great.
The countries from which these students come from do not have high school proms or football homecomings, both students are excited about getting to experience these cultural differences. More articles will appear in the Southern Torch as the students have new experiences.
ASSE International Student Exchange Program is seeking individuals or families to host. For more information call the ASSE Regional office @ 1-800-473-0696 or call 205-467-3337 or go to www.host.asse.com.
Alabama State Coordinator for ASSE, Pamela Stafford said, “ASSE places approximately 1,500 students per year all over the United States. We still have openings for hosts in Alabama for the upcoming school year.” Stafford and her husband have hosted 25 students over a 16-year period. “We are excited to welcome two more students for the upcoming school year,” said Stafford.
