While possessing these qualities, skills, or attitudes alone will not ensure a successful hosting experience, a family who does embody them is much more likely to experience a positive intercultural exchange.
- An open mind and ability to communicate effectively
- Honesty, flexibility, and transparency in family dynamics
- A sense of humor, curiosity, warmth, and expression of feeling among family members
- A strong desire to make the participant a member of the family
One-Member Households:
- Demonstrated evidence of the applicant’s close ties to the community through friends or family that can act as an additional support network for an exchange student placed in an OMH
- Pay special attention to OMHs in teams that host fewer students or that are geographically dispersed and therefore may tend to have less contact with other AFSers and fellow host parents.
Some indicators to consider:
- Division between the family members about whether to host or not
- Contrasting expectations of what hosting a high school exchange participant means. For example, best friend, language tutor, baby-sitter for child, or companion for elderly family member
- Inappropriate comments made during the host family interview. For example, views that demonstrate intolerance towards a specific race, culture, or religion
If you have concerns about the suitability of the family to host, please indicate that on the interview form and talk with the Team Hosting Coordinator or Regional Field Specialist.