Listen to Podcast – The most recent District 5190 podcast is a conversation with two RYE students on short-term exchange. Sophia from Truckee, CA USA hosted Sarah from France for three weeks and then they both went over to France together, where Sarah gets the opportunity to host Sophia for three weeks. Their reflections and experiences have been invaluable.
Renee Hyde explains the Short Term Exchange Program.
Alison describers her Short Term Exchange experience.
TAKE A STEP INTO ANOTHER WORLD!!
Short Term Exchange Program (STEP)
Rotary District 5130 in conjunction with Rotary International is accepting applications for Short Term Exchange Program (STEP) for the upcoming summer program.
What is STEP? Currently our District 5130 is offering Family to Family summer short term exchanges. They involve matching a student here with a student in another country. Typically you spend 3 to 4 weeks in a home abroad and your matching student spends 3 to 4 weeks in your home, experiencing each other’s family, home and culture.
Who is Eligible? Students ages 15-18 can apply. We strive to match students with similar interests whenever possible. Candidates should possess good interpersonal and communication skills and a willingness to try new things. All applicants must be sponsored by a local Rotary Club and complete an initial application and interview.
What are the Costs for a STEP? Costs will vary depending on which country you exchange with. There is a $100.00 application fee. Other expenses include round-trip airfare, travel insurance, passport fees, and of course spending money. In general you can expect to invest between $1,500 and $2000 for a STEP experience.
Where and When will my exchange be? Our STEP is summer oriented during vacation from school. We have exchanged with with Argentina*, Austria, Brazil*, Denmark, Finland, German, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Paraguay*, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan and Thailand. Your exchange will take a total of 6 to 8 weeks between the families. *South American countries have reverse seasons and therefore are in school during our summer. Your matched student may need to come to your home during their Summer Break which is in our winter.
What are my responsibilities? As a Rotary Youth Exchange student you agree to act as an ambassador for your own country and be open to new experiences and cultural differences. You will abide by all program rules of your host Rotary Club and District.
How do I apply? Contact your local Rotary Club for more information on their application deadlines. To find your local Rotary Club you can use the link below. Once you are sponsored by a club, a District Application must be completed by January 31.
A mandatory STEP Orientation will be held in March. The student and at least one parent must attend this orientation. Location to be announced.
