Exchange programs introduce new cultures to students, host parents alike

DAYTON, Ohio ( WDTN ) — Since 1982, International Student Exchange has connected U.S. high school exchange programs with exchange students globally.

Here in the Miami Valley, it’s connecting cultures from around the world.

“Bringing kids from other countries here really, first of all, teaches our American students about other cultures, but it also inspires them to want to travel,” said host Elizabeth Williams.

Williams has been hosting exchange students for the past five years. But, the idea of exchange students goes back much further.

She says serving as a host mom has been a wonderful experience. Williams not only teaches American culture but she learns from the students as well.

“Learning how to cook special foods that they bring from their parents a lot. Their family recipes. Last year I hosted a girl from Italy who loved to cook. I learned how to make her sauce,” said Williams.

As for the students, Henrik Steffens from Germany says he too loves learning and engaging with Americans.

“I had a good time here because people always make me laugh, which is something good. What I experience for myself is that the people here are very patriotic because if I compare it with Germany with all our history, we are just a bit less patriotic and a bit more careful with our history and with like praising our flag and stuff,” said Steffens.

But it was the American restaurant experience that took Maria Cortez from Spain by surprise.

“Free refills. It’s not a thing in Spain or in many countries in Europe, actually. So I was like, shocked when the waiters would, like, bring me new drinks. And I’m like, well, I haven’t paid for this,” said Cortez.

That story and others inspired her brother to come to the U.S. where he will attend high school this upcoming year.

“I expect to have a good year, and also like to have good friends, good relationships over here and enjoy it,” said Juan Cortez, Maria’s brother. “But I would also like to try Chick-fil-A.”

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