Meet Vicky: International Student Chronicles

When a new international student arrives, it's important to make them feel as comfortable as possible.  The definition of comfort varies by culture, but *shopping* translates particularly well.

I picked up an exuberant "Vicky" early Friday afternoon, after her final class ended.  She was waiting on the steps of her boarding school dormitory with a childlike eagerness, (a rare quality in 15-year old girls these days).  She was a little nervous to meet her host family, she told me with a huge smile. But when I offered to take her to a farmer's market to get fresh fruit, and then to a department store to look at some clothes, her nerves suddenly calmed.

"Fresh fruit and vegetables are my favorite," she beamed.  "My grandfather grows these on his farm!"  I could not have picked a better place to introduce her to.  She carefully chose a seedless watermelon, and is in for a real treat when she confirms that there really are no black seeds inside.

After a few hours of shopping and talking about her experiences in China and her dreams for her stay in the USA, Vicky was more ready than ever to meet her host family and absorb everything about living an authentic American lifestyle.  

This is one of many young international students with a story to tell.  Most are like her in many ways -- excited, grateful, and ready to dive into a new, meaningful experience. 

If you are interested in hosting an international student, please drop our homestay coordinator a line by emailing:  homestay@everydayinteraction.com, or visit our website for more info!
www.everydayinteraction.com

An eager, wide-eyed student is awaiting your family as her or his home-away-from-home.  We look forward to hearing from you!