Sean and his family welcoming Giúlia from Brazil at the airport.

Aspect Foundation’s inbox is flooded with notes from students (and host parents!) expressing their gratitude for the experiences they have had with student exchange. On Thursdays, we post one of these notes, sharing the “warm fuzzies” with all of you!

Today’s Thank You Thursday features Host Dad Sean in Michigan, who’s is reflecting on the experiences he has had as a Host Dad and as the husband of Aspect Foundation’s coordinator, Megan.

Another tough day as we said “see you soon” to Giúlia today. I’m excited she’s back with her parents and of course her little brother whom I’m sure missed her the last 5 months. I’m thankful that parents, like hers, let their kids come to the US to live with strangers and go through this experience. What an amazing young lady who is destined for so many great things.

Thankful to the Aspect Foundation and my amazing wife who makes all these experiences happen and Adrienne for convincing us Megan would be perfect for this job, which she absolutely is.

Watching these kids come here and build forever friendships and break down barriers is powerful. Especially with all the things going on in the world today.

These friendships cross all geographical boundaries. Sofia, our Swedish daughter, is off traveling with one of her American friends now in another country. How awesome is that? We have kids, like Maksad, who break down cultural barriers helping to remind us that just being a different faith doesn’t make you any different.

We will miss you Giúlia. Xoxo. See you soon.

Sofia, be safe but have fun traveling in Italy. Today reminded us all just how much we miss you too.

-Sean, Host Dad in Michigan

Interested in sharing YOUR corner of the world with an international exchange student? Learn more about becoming a host family at: http://aspectfoundation.org/host-families.

Sean sneaking into a photo of Giúlia and her host siblings at the White House.

Giúlia from Brazil with her host family in Michigan.