Has anyone ever been an exchange student?

Question

Just wondering... I am going to Italy next year with rotary.

Any advice?

I am so excited!

Answer 1

Hi! I had been a foreign student in Australia for 6 years until I graduated Dec 2007. Now I've decided to settle in Australia and have already applied for permanent residency.

Studying overseas is a great experience. Being in a new country, be open - try as many new things as possible. I know a lot of people aren't adventurous at all when it comes to foreign foods, but do try new things you won't be disappointed!

Answer 2

I was an exchange student (AFS) when I was in high school in 1993-1994....one of the most memorable time of my life :)

Answer 3

i was an exchange student in high school in 2004-2005 and went to the USA. good luck :) have a great time. it's a neat experience.

Answer 4

I'm going with Rotary to Finland.  Go RYE!!!

Answer 5

I'm one now.  In France for a year.  Despite how much I complain about this place they call a country, I do want to live in Europe one day.  Not sure about France...but definitely on the continent somewhere.

Answer 6

No, but I've hosted 13 of them!

I can give you some advice from the host family side.

The first is to be honest! When you do your application, make sure to tell the truth. There is nothing worse for your family to find out that you are not you! :) It also helps you to get to know your host family before you arrive -- call and e-mail them often.

Tell your host family if you have problems. They are there to help you, but if you don't talk to them, they can't.

Stay off the phone/Internet to your friends and family back home. You're not there ... you're in Italy. IT will NOT help you get over being homesick and they can NOT help you with your problems.

Accept every invitation that comes your way if at all possible! Even if you don't think you'll like it. You could be surprised! Also, that's how people make friends!

Obey the rules of your organization and of the country! This sounds like a "no brainer" but you'd be surprised how many students get sent home because they DON'T do that!

Have fun! Treat every day as a new experience. But, realize there are days you'll be just plain bored or frustrated -- just like you are at home.

For lots of helpful hints, check out this on-line community: http://www.exchangestudentworld.com/