Be a Home Away From Home for a Costa Rican Student
When you become a “sharing home” for one of our Costa Rican students, you are opening your door to one of the most special experiences that you can imagine. You become a symbol and ambassador of your community, state and country. You are initiating a relationship that may well last a lifetime.
Carefully matched through a questionnaire and conversations via Skype, your “Tico” or “Tica” student will be part of your daily routine as he or she becomes immersed in American culture and you both speak each other’s language. Our students have chosen to participate in this program because they have a fascination with the United States and a deep curiosity about American life. As you spend time integrating your new family member showing them about your way of life you will discover the joy of opening new doors of exploration and the deep satisfaction of making a young person’s dream of exploration a reality.
And, you will not be alone. Each student group will be accompanied by señors or señoras de compañía. (chaperons) to help with any language challenges.
Opening your door is a simple process with just a few requirements. What you need to do:
All Costa Rican Host Families must undergo a criminal reference check for all members of the household over the age of 18. Safety and security of our exchange students is our first priority.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. We’re here to help.
Carefully matched through a questionnaire and conversations via Skype, your “Tico” or “Tica” student will be part of your daily routine as he or she becomes immersed in American culture and you both speak each other’s language. Our students have chosen to participate in this program because they have a fascination with the United States and a deep curiosity about American life. As you spend time integrating your new family member showing them about your way of life you will discover the joy of opening new doors of exploration and the deep satisfaction of making a young person’s dream of exploration a reality.
And, you will not be alone. Each student group will be accompanied by señors or señoras de compañía. (chaperons) to help with any language challenges.
Opening your door is a simple process with just a few requirements. What you need to do:
- Meet your exchange student at the airport and welcome him or her your home as a member of your family.
- Provide your exchange student with a private bedroom unless otherwise arranged in your matching process.
- Provide 3 meals a day when the student is not traveling or attending an activity.
- Integrate the student into your daily routine, including following house rules.
- Include exchange students in as many of your family and community activities as possible.
- Find opportunities throughout the period to practice English and Spanish.
- Be patient and supportive. Remember, most students have never been outside of Costa Rica, a country not much larger than West Virginia.
- Share your country's culture with pride.
- Be forthcoming with the students and chaperones if any difficulties arise affecting the student’s American experience.
All Costa Rican Host Families must undergo a criminal reference check for all members of the household over the age of 18. Safety and security of our exchange students is our first priority.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. We’re here to help.
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