Dear Friend of ICES,

With the arrival of Spring comes another month filled with cultural exchange and unforgettable experiences within our ICES community. From our annual ICES group trips to heartwarming student highlights, we're excited to share some memorable moments from this month!

Monuments, Museums, and Musicals

From Kristin Taylor, ICES Local Coordinator:

WASHINGTON, DC TRIP (PRESS PLAY TO VIEW VIDEO)

From Casie Young, ICES Senior District Representative:

"Casie Young (DR for Louisiana) and Micaela (host mom) enjoyed chaperoning 16 kids in New York City. The students were able to see many different monuments while exploring the area. The group took a cruise tour to visit the Statue of Liberty and also visited the Manhattan bridge while in that area.  Some of the students attended one of the famous musicals “wicked”. It was amazing to be able to take the student to the Summit at sunset and see the city light up at night. These are the moments I love spending with the students and helping create American memories. Can’t wait to plan our next outing with the students."

NYC TRIP (PRESS PLAY TO VIEW VIDEO)

ROUND OF APPLAUSE!

Rafael Lorca is an exchange student from Brazil studying abroad in Kansas. He has immersed himself in his new school and community and has made major contributions to the junior class at Cheylin High School! 

A message from Rafael's teacher:

"Rafael Lorca from Brazil helped his Cheylin junior class rearrange the Bird City Library. For their hard work, the library generously donated to the junior class fund for their upcoming prom on April 27th. He's always willing to lend a helping hand, including the night before at Cheylin's NHS games. At this event, he helped coach a group of second and third-graders in a fun basketball game. Cheylin is lucky to have Rafa this year! Rafa says, "I really enjoyed raising some money for the junior class working at the library, and it is really fun to coach the little kids." He was also recently indicted into the National Honor Society as an honorary member. He has had a great year in his small school in Bird City, Kansas." 

Host Family Appreciation

The Yonkers family in Kentwood, Michigan on hosting Riu from Japan:

"We love having our exchange students here from Tokyo, Japan. We have learned so many things about Japan. Riu is so kind and considerate. We learned a lot about his family. He has really enriched our lives."

We want to thank each and every one of our host families who have opened their hearts and homes to our exchange students. Your role as host families plays a huge part in student’s lives as you become their home away from home.

Looking ahead into the next exchange year, we invite you once again to join us as a host family. It is your unwavering support, dedication, and generosity that makes our exchange program possible. Thank you for your invaluable contributions to the ICES community. We look forward to another year of partnership, growth, and creating lifelong memories!

Scholarship Opportunity

The 2024 Bridging Cultures Scholarship is now open and accepting applications! This year, ICES will be awarding a total of $17,000 in scholarships to American high school students.

In 500 words or less, describe specific ways you can help exchange students integrate into your school and community to provide opportunities for cultural sharing. 

Click HERE to apply

Helpful Resources on the Blog

How Study Abroad Changes Your Perspective

Studying abroad can be a transformative experience that profoundly impacts your perspective on life, culture, and the rest of the world.

How Spring Cleaning Differs Around the World

Let's take a journey through various countries to explore the diverse ways in which spring cleaning is approached.

7 Topics to Help You Get to Know Your Exchange Student Before Their Arrival

Here are topics to help you and your newly matched exchange student get to know each other better!

CONTEST TIME!