A: It is common for there to be an adjustment period - after all, you are not only in a new family but also a new culture! We encourage students and families to give their relationship time to develop. Remember, your Program Coordinator will be there to help you make this adjustment work! In the rare event that the match does not work despite efforts and time to adjust, your Program Coordinator will be there to discuss the possibility of a move.
Q: Will I have access to a computer and be able to email friends and family at home?
A: While most American families have a computer, there is no guarantee that yours will. Also, realizing that internet access is costly in the United States, it is possible that your access will be prohibited or limited. It's important to follow the wishes of your family, offer to defray costs, and be appreciative if access is allowed. Some students without access in their host family have used computers in public libraries, internet cafes or copy shops with access.
Q: Will my host family do a lot of sightseeing with me?
A: While it is possible that your family will take you to see some local attractions, their responsibility is to provide you with a caring family environment and a glimpse at normal American life. It is likely that most of your family time will be spent doing "normal" family activities (games, watching TV, local sporting activities, beach, etc.)
Q: Can I go sightseeing on my own?
A: Unless you have been given special permission from your parents, you will need to be in the care of an adult for most activities and all overnight activities.
Q: How are American teens most different from teens from other parts of the world?
A: American teens tend to have a bit less mobility and freedom than European teens. Since there is little public transportation in the United States, teens are reliant on their parents to drive them from place to place. Also, American parents tend to request more information on where their teens are going and with whom.
Also, American teens are at times given more responsibilities around the home and can be asked to fix meals, do household chores, and participate in family errands. American teens are usually talkative and open with their family, sharing news about their day. They tend to be quite talkative members of the family.
Q: Do Americans really eat hamburgers and pizza every day?
A: Not at all! American food is a combination of many types of international foods. Breakfasts are usually cereal and milk or something else cold. Most families don't eat bacon and eggs for breakfast regularly. Lunch is usually a sandwich. Dinner is the main meal of the day and can be anything from meat with potatoes and vegetable to spaghetti to fast food. During summer months many families enjoy barbeques (grilling food outside). Most American parents work and therefore family members can help prepare meals at times.
Q: What is an Optional Activity?
A: This is an activity that is not included in your program fee and in which you can choose to participate. There is a fee which includes transportation and the cost for admission. This price decreases the more students that participate. Also, if few students participate, the cost can be higher.