Hostfamily

Your host family is a big part of your year abroad. You should keep in mind that they put aside a lot of time for you. They also put a lot of effort into making your exchange year as good as possible.

Most host families do it because they are interested in learning about other countries and cultures. Be prepared to share yours! They are also responsible for you during your stay; therefore you must follow their rules. You might be surprised to be told you have a curfew (when you must be home) when that is not something you have back home. Most likely a lot of other things will be different as well. The only thing to do is get used to it. This adjustment is pretty easy for most exchange students, but not for all. One of the secrets is to talk about things. If you have a problem, say so! Little problems which can be easily fixed can turn into big ones if no one knows they are there.

You should be aware that you can change host families, but this should be a very last resort. Try and work out problems; use your organization's representative to help. That's what he or she is there for. But, if you really feel it's not working, and everyone has tried, don't be afraid to ask for a change.

Cristina Gattiger - PA, USA (2006 -07)
When I was introduced to the American way of life, I learned that the children often have what is called „chores“. That means that they have to do things around the house such as washing the dishes, taking out the garbage bag or mow the lawn. I was therefore really surprised when my hostmom told me that I wouldn’t have any specific chores. She asked me to do certain things myself and just help when I saw something that had to be done. It was very important for me to support her and show that I appreciated all what she did for me. I was responsible for my own laundry but I also cleaned my room, set the table and I even prepared meals several times. So even if you do not have a fixed list of tasks, always offer your help and express your appreciation. You can never say “Thank you” too much!