Hosting an international exchange student can be an enriching experience that will last a lifetime not only for you, but also for your entire family. By opening your home and heart to a student from overseas, your family will gain a new global perspective, wonderful memories, and share in the culture of another society as they share in your culture.

Currently, Gulf Coast Community College is the first community college in Florida and only one of 20 community colleges partnering with Youth For Understanding (YFU), a non-profit organization that has been organizing exchanges for students from over 60 countries since 1951.

Although YFU started with high school students, since 1991 it has placed approximately 150-175 community college students each year across America. In the spring semester of 2009, Gulf Coast will be hosting three students from YFU and are in need of host families for these students.

The role of a host family is to provide room, board, and a caring atmosphere in which the student can flourish academically and socially. Almost any family style qualifies to become a host family, and it is an experience that will enrich the life of all involved.

The host family is financially responsible for providing for this additional family member, including three meals per day and a separate bed. The host family should also be in a position to allow the student to participate in community activities, hobbies, and cultural events.

There are currently four different types of host families:
• Permanent—host student for the duration of their stay, which is typically one of two semesters depending on their program. Students travel back home during the summer.
• Temporary—host student until a permanent host family is located.
• Arrival Host Families—host students for 4-6 weeks.
• Emergency Host Families—host students for 2-6 weeks.

If you have any questions about becoming a host family, or would like more information about International Programs, contact Linda Fitzhugh: 850-769-1551 ext. 2863, or toll-free 1-800-311-3685. You can also e-mail Fitzhugh at lfitzhugh@gulfcoast.edu