Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do the participants originate from?

The students come from Transylvania, the central region of Romania.

What is the purpose of the program/visit?

The Gimi2US program focuses on educational and cultural immersion opportunities for students from Romania. Family living is the heart of the learning experience, offering young adults the chance to experience other cultures through personal involvement in the homes, schools, and communities. Students are expected to join in almost all aspects of U.S. family life – sharing quiet moments, as well as taking on household and family chores, celebrating events, enjoying family hobbies, and participating in school/family/community activities.

How long will the exchange student stay with my family?

Approximately 10 days in your home, and a lifetime in your memories.

What is the role of host families?

Host families play a unique role in helping participants discover daily life in a new country. They welcome the students into their homes as a member of the family, rather than as a guest or tourist. In turn, the student shares in most daily activities, just as a natural son or daughter. The family is responsible for introducing their young person to American culture through the normal support of a caring, understanding family. Host families provide warm family care, meals, a bed, and more – just as they would for their own family members.

What will my family have to provide?

Room and board, love and understanding, a clean and safe environment, care, and guidance.

What expenses will I have to pay?

Host families are expected to pay only for food and housing. The student will bring their own money for incidental expenses.

Do host families provide transportation?

Yes, within the city of Evansville. We kindly request that host families provide limited transportation for their students during weekdays. Students may be dropped off at one of the following locations:

– Evansville Day School
– Reitz Memorial High School
– University of Evansville

The same locations will serve as pick-up points. On weekends, students are encouraged to engage in activities organized by their host families. However, please note that on April 12th, there will be a scheduled out-of-town trip to Owensboro, followed by a family friendly bowling/movie night.

Do host families organize activities for the students?

Throughout the week, students actively engage in a variety of activities organized by the program and project manager. These activities encompass:

– Visits to schools and universities
– Tours of factories
– Sightseeing excursions
– Guided city tours
– Visits to museums
– Additional extracurricular pursuits

In the evenings and on weekends, host families dedicate their time to interact with the students, fostering a supportive and enriching environment. This engagement not only enhances the students’ experience but also allows for meaningful cultural exchanges.

Hosting an exchange student is an enriching experience that will create lasting memories. It presents an exceptional chance to broaden your family’s horizons and introduce a young person from abroad to new perspectives. By opening your home, you and your family can embark on this incredible journey together. All it requires is a welcoming attitude, a loving home, and a desire to engage in international family experiences.

The host families represent the rich diversity of America; they encompass various nationalities and religious beliefs. Some families have children, while others do not; some reside in urban areas, and others in rural settings. Nevertheless, they all share a common curiosity about the world and a desire for personal growth.

For exchange students, integrating into American families allows them to experience life in the U.S. while sharing their own cultural background in numerous ways. This program offers an unforgettable experience that benefits both host families and exchange students alike.

Please note the following Host Family Guidelines:

The selection process takes into consideration the applicant’s background, interests, requests, hobbies, and the ability to create a strong match between participants and families.
Host families are encouraged to regard the exchange student as a member of their household and to actively include them in all family happenings.
While hosting an individual from another country, families should be adaptable, patient, and open to both verbal and non-verbal communication.
There are no specific expectations for entertaining or traveling with the exchange student. The program highlights the experience of everyday family life. The student’s primary goal is to understand the American education system and culture, so host families are urged to continue their daily routines.
All family members should ensure that the student feels at ease with their friends and is included in different activities and hobbies.

Thank you!

Please contact the program’s leader with any information/requests that your family might have.

Host Family Form