Last week, an Aspect exchange student’s artwork was featured at the Holland Museum in Michigan. The talented artist is Julia from Germany. “It was a school project in US History. We had to represent our own definition of ‘What is an American.’ Then, we voted for the best one in class, and mine won!” Julia … Continue reading
Maike’s host family greets her at the airport as she arrives in Michigan after a long trip from Germany. Dear host family, I still remember when I wrote my application for my exchange year. In that application, I was asked to write a letter to my future host family. I had no idea what you guys were … Continue reading
“I could not describe how grateful I am for my host family as treating me as a member of their family even though we barely know each other in the beginning. Thank you for making my dream come true, giving me many opportunities to join American life, teaching me about your culture and showing your interest in Vietnamese culture. … Continue reading
It’s hard to believe the first six weeks are already behind us. It’s been a whirl-wind of immersion in US teenage culture with school, sports and homecoming. It’s so heartwarming to see the students embracing the adventure and being accepted as one of our town’s own, as if they grew up here! — Host mom Cathy … Continue reading
Meagan, Adam, Kylinn and Tegan have welcomed a new member of the family this year — and documented all of the fun they are having so far! From barbecues and parades to the first day of school and Julie’s first Target shopping trip, it’s been quite a start to the year in Michigan! “It’s no secret … Continue reading
Host mom Cathy says she and her daughter Abby recognized Alma from Germany for the first time by her beaming grin in the airport. With a beautiful sign, a bunch of balloons, and lots of love, this host family is ready to show Alma all that Michigan has to offer. They joined hundreds of host families … Continue reading
Amy and Dan are welcoming their 15th exchange student home this fall! Amy has also served as a local Aspect coordinator in Michigan since 2006, helping other families make unforgettable connections. We began hosting our first year of marriage. We had dated for 7.5 years before we got married so we were ready to try something … Continue reading
Thank you for hosting me this year and loving me as your daughter. I had a great year with lots of fun experiment. My English skills improved a lot throughout the year. I made some new friends at school and I love them because they are awesome and funny people. I will miss it a … Continue reading
As soon as host mom Amanda in Michigan submitted this month’s pick for Photo of the Month, the entire Aspect office let out a collective “awwww!” It reminds us all of the impact student exchange can have on people’s lives, and why we are so proud to be a part of the Aspect family. I … Continue reading
Finnigan is a model guard dog. No new visitor or unfamiliar mailman is safe from this little Bichon’s earnest yelps and barks of warning. But when Ginevra stepped off the plane from Italy and into the Thoma’s home for the first time, there wasn’t a single yip. “I don’t think he’s barked at her once!” … Continue reading