Chinese tradition and culture: Hosting Chinese foreign exchange students

Chinese tradition and culture are brought home to the US by Chinese foreign exchange students. For a short time two cultures merge together under one roof. Hosting a Chinese foreign exchange student can be very rewarding for both the student and the host family.

Chinese foreign exchange students are generally teens who are looking to experience American culture. The end result is an exchange of both Chinese tradition and culture and American culture that enlightens both the students and the host families.

However, more than an exchange of Chinese traditon and culture and US culure takes place. In some cases, the Chinese foreign exchange students become "goodwill ambassadors" for the US when they return to China.

These students have the chance to show “that America is more than the sum of its presumed national interests and military power. In many parts of the world these days, that is no small accomplishment.” (William Ratliff, San Francisco Chronicle) Hopefully, the ties forged between foreign exchange students and their US host families will not only provide an exchange between Chinese tradition and culture and US culture but will also on a larger scale strengthen ties between both countries.

Recently, the US Department of State extended the validity of visas for Chinese foreign students and exchange visitors from six months and multiple entries to twelve months and multiple entries. The Chinese government has also agreed to extend the validity of the visas issued to US students in China to twelve months and multiple entries.

These extensions will save both the students and government officials time and money in both countries. It appears that even the US and Chinese governments see the benefits of foreign exchange student programs.

There are many reputable agencies that help place exchange students. Two of the better known ones are listed below. If you know of other agencies, please contact us. We want to keep this site as current as possible.

“Recognizing the importance of global interdependence, Pacific Intercultural Exchange-USA has dedicated itself to breaking down barriers to communication and building bridges among the cultures of the world through the medium of international student exchange. P.I.E.-USA believes that only through knowledge can the fear of the unknown be eliminated and true cooperative unity be achieved.”

“When you host a foreign exchange student you and your loved ones gain knowledge about different cultures, languages and people. There's something quite rewarding about having friends throughout the world. Plus you'll also get the satisfaction of knowing you have provided a once in a lifetime educational opportunity to a deserving young student. "