Hosting students from around the world is one of life's most rewarding experiences, says Julie Pyke.
Pyke is a local coordinator for MLI Homestay, a company that organizes educational experiences for students in Canada. Recently, seven new students were welcomed into schools in Perth and Huron counties, joining 19 students, who arrived in September.
"It is very rewarding," Pyke told StratfordToday. "Just to bring a student from another country in to see our culture, show them the simple things like their first snowfall. From a family aspect it makes us appreciate our culture, too."
Students are staying in Stratford, Mitchell, St. Marys, Listowel and Goderich during the current school year, for lengths of three to 12 months.
There are local coordinators in Stratford and Mitchell, who provide support for students and families.
Pyke, who lives near Listowel, has hosted students from Brazil and Thailand. She has worked in past years as an ESL teacher.
In addition to school work and learning a new language, students enjoy learning about Canadian culture and traditions, Pyke said. They also grow close with their host families while engaging in activities and learning new things. Pyke enjoyed trying different Thai restaurants with a student that stayed in 2023.
"Students are so appreciative of the experience. It doesn't have to be expensive."
Board games and family movie nights are popular activities.
"Sometimes it's the simple things, looking at the buds in the spring. Some things they wouldn't see in their home country."
Pyke said families keep up the relationship. Some students come back and hosts have gone to visit their past students in their home countries.
Jodi Anderson, community engagement specialist with MLI Education Group, said students discover how fun and rewarding the opportunity is once they arrive and start to learn about Canada and its residents. Some from heavily populated countries appreciate the open spaces, or enjoy a break from their families.
They also grow as human beings while they are staying with their host families, she said.
"They are brave, it's such an experience. They may be shy when they arrive...(some) only know a few sentences when they get here. When they leave they could give a presentation."
Recruitment is underway for new host families and there are often opportunities throughout the year.
Hosts are required to include students in their home life, provide a private bedroom with a bed, desk and window and access to a bathroom. Hosts are expected to provide meals and families often eat dinner together when possible, Anderson said.
Hosts are fairly compensated each month to take care of students’ needs.
For more information go to the website.
