Mid-Stay Orientations are an exciting part of the exchange year, bringing students together for bonding, reflection, and new adventures. These orientations are just one of the many ways our coordinators support Aspect students throughout the school year. For example, students from Washington, Colorado, and Nebraska had the opportunity to make lasting memories—whether by taking part in scavenger hunts, learning to bake pies, or visiting a state capitol. Thanks to our amazing International Coordinators, our students stay connected and supported throughout their time in the United States.
For our mid-stay, we had an overnight trip to Great Wolf Lodge. This year, in addition to other activities, I actually split the kids into groups and had them act out scenarios of common issues that come up during an exchange year. The kids acted out the negative scenarios, and then we discussed them as a group, offering ideas on how things could have gone better and what the students could have done to improve the outcome.
Then they all could hang out in the water park, in their rooms, etc. They had a great time! I combined this with my government enhancement activity during which we met with the Governor of Washington State’s Chief Operations Officer, then went on a guided tour of the Capitol, had lunch, and finally went to the Lodge for orientations.
– Community Manager Kristine from Washington
Each year, our students come together at mid-stay to discuss how things are going and how to plan to accomplish their goals for the second semester. This year, the theme for the orientation in Nebraska was ‘American as Apple Pie,’ a theme with roots in the U.S. dating back to World War II. Students learned a new skill when a guest pie-baking expert from the community, Dena, came to teach them how to make pie crust from scratch. We were fortunate that a local church, where one of the host moms attends, allowed us to use their community room and kitchen.
Although some students had baked before while others were new to the culinary space, they all rolled up their sleeves and embraced the new experience. My favorite part of the event was watching how each of their unique personalities became evident as they learned to construct a pie. While the pies were in the oven, students had a chance to discuss how they felt their year was going and their future plans. When host families came to pick up students, they were treated to fresh pie and ice cream, served by the students.
– International Coordinator Julie from Nebraska
We do a weekend in Estes Park with the students at YMCA Camp of the Rockies. We combine it with our American Culture Enhancement, focusing on the different cultures of Colorado. It’s the best thing we do all year with the kids. For the mid-stay orientation, we talk about program goals and how students can attain those goals. For example, we have the students create and present a ‘Past, Present, and Future’ poster primarily focusing on the past and future, with pictures, drawings, words, etc.
For the American Cultural Enhancement, the highlights are RMNP, a scavenger hunt in town, a photography gallery, and the biggest hit—a tour of the iconic Stanley Hotel. We have also met with park rangers, visited the ski museum, learned about indoor rock climbing, and toured the Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory—a cultural experience not only for Colorado but globally.
– International Coordinator Susan from Colorado
Would you also like to work with students from across the world? Join the Aspect team as an International Coordinator! We are always looking for great candidates in many communities, large and small, across the U.S. For more information about the International Coordinator position and how to apply check out our website!
