| Our homestay program is
designed exclusively for our international visitors. Hosting International
visitors is the best way to experience the world without leaving your home!
Hosting provides families with the unique opportunity to share their cultures
and learn about different cultures, while being in the comfort of their own
homes. Many families host for the educational value and enrichment the
experience brings to their own families. American customs and culture gain
deeper meaning as host families introduce homestay participants to their own
cultures. The insight and flexibility gained through hosting helps to prepare
host families for our fast-changing, multicultural world. With this awareness
comes an increased tolerance of the differences between people and a heightened
appreciation of the similarities. Ultimately, the lasting friendships that are
formed are perhaps the most valuable part of the experience.
Host families are the foundation of our homestay
program. Our network of host families, comprised of retirees ("empty-nesters"),
single parents, young couples and single individuals, represent the rich
diversity in America. They have different religious practices, cultures,
professions and ethnic backgrounds. While our host families have diverse
backgrounds, they share the desire to open their home and hearts to
international visitors. Moreover, they have a sincere desire to broaden their
perspective of the world.
Our homestay participants are also rich in
diversity, representing various age groups and nationalities. Just Like Home
offers two programs to international visitors, including our Student Program and
our Executive Program. Our Student Program is offered to language school and
college students. Our Executive Program is offered to interns, medical and
business professionals and scholars. They come from many different continents,
including, Asia, Europe, Africa and South America. The length of stay ranges
from one week to six months; however, the average stay is approximately two
months. Our homestay participants have a varying level of English proficiency
and most have studied English for many years before their arrival. |