International Exchange Student Program Coming to Morristown

Have you ever participated in a foreign exchange project? Did you go to another country, or knew someone who hosted a foreign exchange student here? Or, like many of us, have you heard of these programs but have never been involved?

This summer, you'll have your chance.

Host families are currently needed for 150 students from Spain, France, Russia, Germany and Italy as part of "EF Homestay" program through Education First, an over 40-year-old non-profit organization promoting international student exchange. Students stay with local host families for three to four weeks in the summer, taking classes during the day and learning more informally about their host family's culture one-on-one in the evening. Morning classes consist of history, English and other subjects. Afternoons can be spent participating in things like educational tours and sightseeing, among other cultural avenues. Evenings, weekends and Friday afternoons are free time for the students. Students come fully-insured and EF program managers are available during the entirety of student participation. Host families also receive a weekly stipend per hosted student, among other incentives.

Three programs are scheduled for this summer, with students participating July 7 through 27, July 7 through Aug. 1 and Aug. 3 through 22. As many 5,000 students will be staying with host families throughout the U.S. through the EF Homestay program, according to EF.

EF representative Amelie Hannebicque, herself a part of the host program–staying with a family in Jacksonville, Fla., in 1993–recently met with Morristown administration to discuss Morristown joining the host program for the first time.

A native of France now living in Boston, Hannebicque made what felt like the obvious transition from participant to member of the organization, joining EF in 2003. "I can tell you that it changes the student’s perspective on the world," she said. "It opens up possibilities for the future: studying abroad becomes an exciting prospect rather than a scary perspective. I am still in contact with my host family that hosted me in 1993."

Hannebicque said Morristown–with its close proximity to New York, family atmosphere, safety and lots of activities available made for an excellent choice.

Mayor Timothy Dougherty said he was excited by the prospect of Morristown becoming one of the selected hosts for EF Homestay program.

"Anytime you have someone come in and explore our education system and our way of life over here, I think it's a great idea," he said, noting a niece and nephew of his that have participated in exchange programs like EF Homestay. "It's a positive experience for kids; hopefully, families will want to host."

Hannebicque's recent visit to a Town Council meeting was part of the present outreach and awareness effort the organization is working on to generate interest from Morristown families to participate. She said her nearly two-decade involvement in the program is a testament to her passion and belief in its mission.

"I decided to get involved with EF full time because I love what the organization stands for:breaking down barriers in culture, geography and language," she said. "I love helping the world become a smaller place thanks to all the connections we make between our students, our host families and our staff."

For more information about this program or to learn more about how to become a host family for these summer students, call 1-800-521-0083. Also, visit www.ef.com, or www.efhomestay.org for more information.