The Fry Family opened their home to an exchange student from the Czech Republic back in 2015. You can watch Jacklynn explain their thought process, their reservations and the amazing experiences they had once their student arrived.
Deciding To Host an Exchange Student
The Fry Family went back and forth trying to decide if hosting an exchange student was right for them. Would the new student fit in with the family? Would their own children want a new “sibling”? These were just some of the questions they asked themselves. In the beginning they repeatedly said no to the Area Rep that was trying to recruit them. Jacklynn would sit at her computer and type up emails saying they were not interested in hosting an exchange student, but then she finally reached back out and said they would host a student.
Becoming a Member of The Family
Once their exchange student, Valentyna, arrived, it did not take long for her to become a member of the family. Jacklynn said, “she would help out around the house, and she did not complain once when asked to do or help out with something.” She also said, “as far as the kids go, she was amazing with them. She really took them in as if they were her real siblings.” Overall she was very respectful of the Fry Family, as well as their home. They still communicate frequently even though Valentyna is half way around the world. She even came to visit the Fry Family last summer and met the newest member of the Fry Family, their new born son.
If you would like to help an exchange students dreams come true, we invite you to read more about hosting a foreign exchange student. If you have specific questions about hosting, check out our host family FAQ page. You can also read testimonials from our past and current host families. When you feel ready, complete our host family interest form and our area representative will get in touch with you.
You can also get involved by joining our team of Area Representatives! Help match host families and exchange students and bring the world closer together, while making a supplemental income.
Original Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUee42ZkhzU&t=315s
