Have You Ever Been an Exchange Student in Germany?

Hosting an exchange student in Germany?

• What do teens in Germany like to do? I am trying to be a part of an exchange program, which means I would host a teen from Germany. But if I hosted, what would I do with them? I'm sort of confused about that part because I live in an area where there isn't a whole lot tO do. Help! What can I do with a German teen that would make their America experience the best?? Thanks!

• Answer:

  It really depends on how long the student will be here. I assume that regardless of anything else, the student will be going to school. In general, it's been my experience that German teens like the same things that American teens like and that it really depends on the teen (do you like exactly the same things that your classmates like?). If the student is coming for a short-term program, the program organizers may have activities planned. When I was in high school, my family hosted a girl from Mexico for a little over a week and the school (which organized the trip) organized activities for the students and host classmates. We lived in a small (about 2000 people) town south of Wichita at that time and the school found enough to do in our area without having to go too far too often. If it's a long-term program (a semester or longer), then the student is here to get a much deeper understanding of life here. In that case, you would treat the student like a new sibling. They are here to live life as much as practical as a "normal" teen would here. Being treated as a member of the family is the best thing for these students. My husband and I have hosted 7 long-term students. (We are currently hosting our 2nd German student - a boy from near Hamburg and have hosted another from the Wilhelmshaven area.) Talk to the program organizers about details. They will be the best ones to ask and may know about activities in your area. Most important rule: Relax and have fun! Remember the purpose is for everyone to learn about each other.