Having a Blast as a First-time Host Mom

Host mom Tina R. from Texas reached out recently to share the following about welcoming two AYA students into her family this year.

This is my first year hosting an exchange student, so most that know me were surprised when they discovered that I had decided to host two girls. It has been a great and rewarding experience for me and though I cannot speak for them, I believe they are enjoying their time in the USA.

It has been fun learning our cultural differences and similarities as well as discovering how much slang I use! We established an open dialogue early and have been able to make undeniable bonds of friendship and mutual respect. My girls are teaching me so much and I love showing them “my America.”

They are passionate about learning and experiencing new things, and we are all eager for what tomorrow may bring. Thank you AYA for putting me in contact with these wonderful and inspiring young women!

Here are photos of my exchange students enjoying some experiences in America so far. We are having a blast together; I am so thankful for these two and how adventurous, sweet and gracious they have been.

Thanks for sending this, Tina! We are THRILLED to hear you are enjoying life as a host mom with AYA.