What better way to experience a country than by staying with a local family? Becky, a Community Manager and host mom from Utah, discovered that the real heart of Spain isn’t found in tourist attractions but in exploring villages side by side, laughing late into the night, and celebrating the sweet moments of everyday life. … Continue reading
Sharmi from Utah thought her family’s hosting days were over once their own kids were grown. But when she saw students still hoping for a chance to come to the United States, she and her husband decided to help by welcoming two girls into their empty nest. What they quickly discovered was that hosting two … Continue reading
This month, we’re shining a spotlight on Butter from Thailand, who is spending the 2025-26 school year in Washington State, with the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. Butter shares what has surprised him about life in America, the biggest differences between his home and here, and why … Continue reading
When families decide to host an exchange student, they often think about the impact it will have on the student. But sometimes, the person whose life changes the most is already living at home. Becky, a Community Manager and host mom from Utah, shares how hosting exchange students transformed life for her daughter, Juliette. What … Continue reading
Thank You Thursday is here and we’re featuring Helga from Spain, who is spending the 2025-26 school year in Utah! Helga tells us how her host family and daily experiences have turned her exchange adventure into something truly memorable. From the first day, you made me feel like I was part of your family, and … Continue reading
Ever wondered what hosting looks like through a dad’s eyes? Today, host dad Derek shares what the experience has meant to his family and how life has changed since Ajia from Pakistan joined them for the 2025-26 school year in Utah, with the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the US Department of State. Keep … Continue reading
This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Viktoria from Bulgaria, who is spending the 2025-26 school year in Arizona, with the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the US Department of State. She has made a remarkable impact through school clubs, volunteering, and other activities. Recently recognized by her school district, Viktoria’s dedication, positive spirit, and … Continue reading
Today, we hear from Stacie, a wonderful host mom from Washington State, who tells us about her family’s experience of hosting Diego from Spain. From cooking and baking together to sharing Spanish traditions, he quickly became part of their daily life. His curiosity, laughter, and eagerness to join every activity brought joy and new experiences … Continue reading
To kick off this Thank You Thursday, we’re sharing a heartfelt letter from Augustina from Ghana, who is spending the 2025-26 school year in Washington State, with the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the US Department of State. Augustina reflects on a new meaning of family and the people and moments that made her … Continue reading
Hosting an exchange student can turn a house into a home, and Nicole from Arizona knows this firsthand! Community Manager Nicole and her family welcomed Elsa from Sweden, and from day one, Elsa became part of the family. Even after returning to Sweden, Elsa comes back to visit for holidays and special occasions, keeping the … Continue reading