My Host Family Experience
Greek's perspective on WV fam
[This student was also nominated Student of the Month.]
Before I started my exchange year, living with a host family was the thing I was concerned about the most. But after living with them for a while, I realize that it has helped me to grow as a person.
At first, I thought we didn’t have a lot in common. But as we got to know each other in a deeper way, I got to see life from their perspective and I learned many important life lessons.
My host father is the most sociable person I know. Wherever we go, whatever we do, he is always ready to talk to people and create connections with them. He is the life of every conversation and knows how to make people open up to him. He is able to make any experience positive. He also taught me how to act with confidence in my life decisions. Even with the smallest things. I love his sense of humor, his adventurous spirit, and his passion to learn Greek.
Living with two little host brothers is a lot different than living with an older sister. It makes me feel like a kid again.
My host mother is very altruistic. She is always ready to give to people. When I talk to her about my problems, I feel like I’m talking to my best friend. She is always there for me.
She also taught me how important it is to express your opinion without hesitation.
I also love how well they communicate. Even if they disagree with one’s opinion, they still respect it and they are always grateful for any help you may give. I admire the way they encourage their children to make their own decisions to become independent and chase their dreams.
Living with two little host brothers is a lot different than living with an older sister. It makes me feel like a kid again. While playing with them, all the bad thoughts go away and I just enjoy the moment. Thanks to them, I have become more patient and understanding.
I love my family back in Greece. But getting to live with a completely different family has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
—Parthena (FLEX, Greece), hosted by the Patsaricas family (WV)
