Editor, The Spotlight;
Guilderland High School and Clayton A. Bouton High School were attended by three foreign exchange students this past year. Sarah and Theresia, from Germany, went to GHS and Lejun, from China, went to Clayton A. Bouton.
Last month, they returned to their home countries with many wonderful memories of their incredible exchange year in upstate New York. Even though they are gone, they will long be a part of the lives of many in our communities. Many thanks to their teachers, guidance counselors and administrators for the support and encouragement you gave while working with these Youth for Understanding (YFU) exchange students.
All three girls enjoyed their experiences in the USA and the academic year in their schools. They had fun joining school clubs, being on the Cross Country and Track and Field teams, singing in the choir, going on school trips to Boston, NYC, participation in a local Art Show, the opportunity to stay after school with teachers to receive help, and spending time with all the students who welcomed them and became their friends.
Exchange students come to the U.S. to experience a culture different from their own. Every day, new and different opportunities are available for them with their host family, at their high school and in their community. They discovered school spirit at events like football games, basketball games, cross country and track meets. They also went to prom to participate in an exciting high school tradition.
The host family is the lifeline of the YFU exchange program. They open their homes and hearts to an international student that they have never met. Their willingness to host a student who wants to learn about a culture other than their own becomes a opportunity for the whole community. I want to thank our host families for their kindness, acceptance and generosity. Without you, the opportunity for our schools and community to develop intercultural understanding and mutual respect would not happen. I know that it is so difficult to say goodbye at the end of the year. My family did just that on July 9. As emotional as it was, we would host again in a heartbeat. It is difficult to put into words the bond that was formed between us and our Sarah. The memories, the joy and the laughter that we shared are irreplaceable.
Youth for Understanding, is currently seeking host families for exchange students who are arriving to attend school this fall. Would you consider hosting or serving as a welcome family for one of our carefully selected foreign exchange students? The benefits of hosting a YFU student are as numerous and varied as the families who embrace this life-altering experience. By opening your home and heart to a student from overseas, you and your family will gain a new global perspective, many memories, and — quite possibly — a new family member for life.
To contact YFU you may call one of the local volunteers, Karen Covert-Jones at 356-1167, Janet Breeze at 469-9179 or Shannon Rody at 646-621-7907. We would love to talk with you about our soccer playing, theater loving, horse adoring, and musically talented students. The exchange students have so many different interests and come from many countries. You may also call 800-872-0200 to speak directly with the local Field Director, Daniel Pluta.
Karen Covert-Jones
Guilderland