Hosting / Life in the U.S.

What Families Gain by Hosting an Exchange Student

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Every host family’s experience is unique, but one thing remains the same: hosting an exchange student brings unexpected joy and growth. From learning about new cultures to gaining an extra son or daughter, here’s what five Aspect families say they’ve gained.

Hermione from France (second from right) meeting her excited host family in Michigan

It was the best experience ever! We will have a fifth member of our family for the rest of our lives. This is the third child that I have always wanted. Hermione was perfect for us, and we were perfect for her! We adore her and always will.

– Carol, host mom from Michigan

Lara from Germany (third from left) making memories with her host family in Nebraska

We gained another daughter and another family in Germany. We learned about German culture, and I even started learning German with DuoLingo. Ultimately, we gained more joy than we thought we could by taking Lara as a daughter, even if only for a short time.

– Tony, host dad from Nebraska

Carla from Spain being warmly greeted by her host family and enjoying a hike with them in Utah

My husband and I do not have children of our own, so we gained a sense of pride in helping care for and guide a young person! We learned about Carla’s culture and were able to take part in many American traditions we wouldn’t get to otherwise (watching her play sports, finding a prom dress, etc.).

– Victoria, host mom from Utah

Left image: Samuel from Mozambique enjoying a day at the park with his host mom Megan
Right image: Samuel from Mozambique having fun bowling with his host dad and host siblings

A new cultural perspective, patience, and understanding. A lifelong friend, brother, and son. We love Samuel, are proud of his growth, and wish him the very best in his upcoming studies.

– Megan, host mom from Washington State

Valentine from Belgium (second from right) with her happy host family in Utah

We have gained a daughter who will be a part of our family for the rest of our lives. Valentine was absolutely the perfect fit. We will be forever grateful that she found our family. We also have two other exchange children from Spain and Guatemala, and we are already planning our first family reunion next summer!

– Tobie, host dad from Utah

Are you interested in making a student a part of your family? We are looking for American host families to welcome a student for Spring 2026 semester and the upcoming 2026-27 school year. Check out the profiles of our wonderful students. New student profiles go online every Thursday!