“Exchanging” Benefits

I n our last two issues, we have shared stories of exchange students from China and Belgium who are experiencing life at Waitsburg High School. In upcoming weeks you'll read about foreign students at Dayton High school as well.

In the process of meeting with students, teachers and host families, we are reminded of just what an exceptional growth opportunity these foreign exchange programs pro- vide for all involved.

Through these programs the exchange student has the opportunity to truly immerse himself in a culture in a way that is not typical of a tourist. By living, learning, eating and sleeping with a host family, they receive an accurate picture of family and school life in a foreign country, thereby allow- ing them to either confirm or reject stereotypes they may have developed.

Global awareness is greatly increased as the student real- izes how different life can be in other cultures. Students' lan- guage skills are greatly improved through immersion in the foreign culture, and the students develop maturity, tact and poise as they interact with parents, teachers and leaders from the host country. It is quite common for visiting students to give talks to community groups or meet with city officials.

The programs are also an excellent means of allowing the student to develop greater problem solving skills, leaving the student with a greater sense of strength and self-reliance as they are confronted with new situations, away from their traditional support systems.

Perhaps most surprising, is the intensity of the long-term relationships that develop through the programs. Brad Huff- man, son of Times staffer Dena Wood, visited Japan as part of the short-term Sasayama Sister City exchange program over ten years ago and still remains in contact with friends he met on that visit. Melissa Norman, currently hosting Thibault Martinelle expressed that he had become a member of the family, and that they anticipate a lifelong relationship with him.

The benefits of the program are far from limited to the visiting student, however. Students and host families in- crease their awareness as they view their home and commu- nity through fresh eyes. They are often confronted with new thoughts and ideas to evaluate, and they learn to appreciate items and experiences they may have formerly taken for granted.

Tawnya Richards, Times staffer, whose family is cur- rently hosting Cherry Dai, said she feels the program has impacted her family most through what it taught them about themselves.

"Cherry is very grateful and never fails to express her thanks for even simple things, like being served at dinner," Tawnya said. "Our kids see that, as well as the respect she has for others and it has an impact. We've also realized how much we tend to take things for granted. There have been several instances where we assumed something was a common experience - playing on a trampoline, for example - only to learn it was completely new to Cherry. We've learned not to make assumptions about what is common culture."

With an abundance of opportunities available in our area for both long and short-term exchanges, we highly encour- age those who are able, to participate either as student or host. These programs are dependent on willing host fami- lies, which can be difficult to come by. Opening your home to a guest from another culture can be a truly enriching and rewarding experience that you will cherish for years to come.