There is no “typical” U.S. American family. The U.S. is a country founded by immigrants from many different countries, and we take pride in our diversity and the different traditions that arise from it. Your host family could be African American, Latin-American, Asian-American or descendants of a variety of European nationalities and ethnicities. A family’s cultural background will most likely influence the rules and values of their home life.
Among other criteria established by the U.S. Department of State, AFS-USA’s criteria for hosting are a secure, flexible, interested household of people genuinely open to sharing their lives with a teenager. Keep the following in mind as you begin to build a relationship with your host family:
- Your host family does not receive money for having you in their home. They choose to share their life and home with you and to provide love and support.
- Your host family wants to learn more about you and your country/culture, as well as to teach you about themselves and life in the U.S.
- Families in the U.S. come in all shapes and sizes. Your host family may include a mother, father, and children. Some families have only one parent; some do not have children. If you keep an open mind, you will find that there are wonderful advantages to every situation!
- Most AFS host families are NOT as wealthy as the U.S. families portrayed on TV and in U.S. movies.
- In most U.S. families, all adult members of the family work.
- It is not common for U.S. families to have a maid or servants in the home. Family members, including the father and the children, usually help with household work, cooking, and other daily chores.
- Many American families are actively spiritual/religious. All religions are freely practiced in the U.S., but the largest majority of Americans are Christian. Attending services at least once as a part of your experience is one of many ways you can demonstrate to your host family that you are interested in learning about their lifestyle and beliefs. If you practice a different religion, you may also want to invite them to attend your religious service with you as a way of furthering the intercultural exchange.
- A house of worship is often a center of social activity for the community. Many synagogues, churches, and mosques have regular meetings and social events for their members, along with holiday festivities, educational, and other seasonal events. Joining your family and/or siblings at these events is a great way to meet people of all ages and to explore interests to which you may not otherwise be exposed.
- Many U.S. families have pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, etc. These pets, especially dogs and cats, are often treated as part of the family.
- Most placements are with families in small towns, not in or near cities. There are advantages and challenges to every living situation. In a smaller community you will be less likely to “blend in with the crowd,” and people are likely to be more interested in learning about you and your culture.
- People in your community may never have come into contact with someone from your home country. Although the U.S. is diverse as a whole, smaller towns may have less diversity. This can be advantageous because it will force you to speak English rather than your native language.
Once you receive information about your U.S. host family, please feel free to reach out to them. Your host family is as curious about you as you are about them! Ask them about their family, their home, what their hobbies are, and ask if there any specific items (such as a winter coat or boots) that you should bring.
Alumni quotes
"People have many perspectives about what is going to happen so don’t worry, just try in the beginning to make a beautiful relationship with your host family because this is the center of your year." - Veronica, Colombia
"You will have a lot of questions when you first come here, especially with your family. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. All of the people are very happy to help you, especially an exchange student. So please be brave! You can talk about everything with your host family; they will be the closest people to you during your year." - Oian Oian, China