Hosting / Life in the U.S.

The First Days of Welcoming an Exchange Student

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The first days of hosting are already full of new experiences for host families and exchange students. Host mom Falguni shares a glimpse into her family’s experience hosting Clara from Germany for the 2026-27 school year, from trying new snacks and exploring the community to getting ready for the first day of school. It’s just the beginning, and there are plenty more memories to come!

Clara from Germany (second from left) being warmly welcomed to Utah by her happy host family, including host mom Falguni (left)

When Clara arrived in August, we welcomed her with a warm welcome sign and flowers. We shared our household routine and showed her around to ensure she settled in comfortably. She adjusted quickly and recovered from jet lag within two days.

We took her grocery shopping and picked snacks she always wanted to try. We have been doing that routinely now, and each time she picks up American snacks to try. Our kids go to archery club every Saturday morning. She joined us and enjoyed watching them shoot arrows.

Clara from Germany samples some American snacks during her first days in Utah

I volunteer with Draper City’s Community Engagement and Events Committee. She came along with me to Draper City’s Monster Truck Show and had a great time. We took advantage of her early arrival and visited the high school. She was able to sign up for all classes of her choice, pick up her Chromebook, get her ID card, and attend orientation to get familiar with the school. It helped her tremendously as she started school this week. She didn’t have any issues finding classrooms.

Clara from Germany is all smiles and ready for her first day of school in Utah

I took the kids to the mall, and she had fun at the arcade. She was amazed at the size of our stores and mall compared to her hometown. We also went to a restaurant last night, and she enjoyed her first American dine out experience. Hosting Clara has been a pleasure so far. She is such a sweet person. Her presence brings calmness, and she is very enthusiastic to learn and absorb American culture.

Are you interested in making a student like Clara a part of your family? We are looking for American host families to welcome a student for the 2027 spring semester and the upcoming 2027-28 school year. Submit an inquiry, and you’ll be the first to hear when profiles of our students go online!