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Hosting an exchange student brings our world closer together

Volunteers are needed to Host High School Exchange Students

By Jennifer Sheran, publisher Macaroni Kid McDonough, Stockbridge, Hampton, Locust Grove January 26, 2022

As international travel returns to normal, high school students from around the world eagerly await their opportunity to participate in an exchange program in the U.S. International Student Exchange (ISE), a 501c3 nonprofit organization that facilitates exchange programs for students in the U.S. and abroad, is currently seeking volunteers in the area to host these students while they attend local high schools. 

Hosting a student is a unique opportunity to create relationships that span the globe while making a positive impact locally and globally. ISE host families come from all walks of life, and represent the diversity of America. The most crucial host family characteristic is that they are willing to treat the exchange student like a member of the family, not a guest. Beyond this, host families must be vetted by ISE, pass a background check, provide room and board, 2-3 meals per day, and exercise parental responsibility to ensure the student’s well-being. 

ISE exchange students are 15-18 year old high school students from over 40 countries around the world. They are accepted into the program based on their ability to speak English, demeanor, adaptability, and eagerness to learn about a new culture while sharing their own. There are currently several students awaiting a volunteer host in Georgia. 

To learn more about this opportunity or submit a host family application, please visit southland.iseusa.org or contact Tiffany McGuire at tiffanymcguire.ise@gmail.com today!