WELCOME TO NORTHWEST SERVICES

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2 Table of Contents WELCOME TO NORTHWEST SERVICES 3-5 LOCAL COORDINATORS NORTHWEST SERVICES STAFF HOST FAMILY PREPARATION 6-9 COMMUNICATION WITH STUDENT & NATURAL FAMILY STUDENT S ROOM EXPECTATIONS AFTER YOUR STUDENT ARRIVES DIET DAILY LIFE COMMUNICATION WORDS OF WISDOM SAFETY TIPS 14 SAFETY TIPS FOR HOST FAMILIES DURING STUDENT S PROGRAM CULTURE SHOCK PROGRAM SUCCESS; SMOKING, DRUGS/ALCOHOL, DATING, RELIGION, DRIVING, TRAVEL SCHOOL PROGRAMS ON PROGRAM WARNING/PROBATION FOR STUDENT HOST FAMILY CHANGE EMERGENCIES STUDENT EMERGENCIES SAYING GOODBYE 31 END OF PROGRAM ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PRE-ARRIVAL PREPARATION WORKSHEET STUDENT PROGRAM RULES 2

3 WELCOME TO NW SERVICES, INC., PEACE PROGRAM! Welcome to the NW Services PEACE Program (a.k.a. NWS or Northwest Services) world of international youth exchange! Soon you and your entire family will participate in what could possibly be one of your greatest experiences ever -- the opportunity to host a student from another country. The purpose of this handbook is to help you prepare for the student whom you have selected. Information is provided about the program s requirements and student needs, as well as ideas on what to expect of yourselves and your student. Students participate in an exchange program for various reasons, e.g. to experience another culture, become more mature, meet American friends, and improve their English ability. Families participate with the desire to share their homes with someone from another country, broaden their knowledge of other cultures; encourage better world relations, and so on. Whatever the initial reasons, the final result is that the lives of all parties involved are positively changed forever. The world seems to become more intelligible and inviting. We realize that our differences can be amusing and nonthreatening, and that our similarities are a reassurance that we can all live together in a peaceful world. We thank you for your interest in participating in international student exchange. Because of families like yours, enriching programs such as NWS are able to exist. Together we can help bring about a broader understanding of the ever-changing world in which we live. This handbook offers important information which will make the experience with your exchange student a successful and happy one. Please regard it as a resource which can be referred to throughout the year to answer questions that may arise. The staff of NWS wishes you a wondrous and fun-filled year! 3

4 NW SERVICES, INC. BACKGROUND NORTHWEST SERVICES is a small, international youth exchange program, based in Boise, Idaho, designated by the United States Department of State (DOS) as a Secondary Student Visitor Exchange Program with the authority to provide J-1 visa certification. NWS has a network of local coordinators, supervisors and a national central office to promote international youth exchange throughout the U.S. and ensure quality of the program. After you have agreed to host, you will be asked to complete some important paperwork and a background check. This is required by our federal government. Your cooperation and speed in completing these is very important and appreciated. Please especially fill out the host family application in full including photos. Your student will be so happy to receive this! Also, your Local Coordinator (LC) is required to do an in-home interview with all family members present. Please comply with this; it is for your benefit as well as the safety of the students. Upon placement, you will receive some important documents from the NWS central office for you to review and keep. These include the host family handbook, letter from Department of State, and a culture gram about your student s country. If you did not receive this full packet, please call your local coordinator. NWS wants you, as a host family, to be assured that your student has been carefully screened and oriented to better prepare him/her for the exchange experience. Feel free to contact our office if the need arises at (208) and toll free (888)

5 LOCAL COORDINATORS NWS Local Coordinators serve many functions. They are responsible for developing and publicizing the program in their local community, matching students with qualified host families, organizing get-togethers for students/host families, maintaining contact with the local high school, and for giving valuable support and counsel to students and host families. Local coordinators stay in frequent contact with their NWS supervisor in order to ensure the smooth operation of the program experience. Your Local Coordinator is your most important contact with NWS. He/she is available to assist you throughout the coming year to answer your questions or to secure information necessary to answer your questions. Do not hesitate to contact your LC whenever you feel you need some assistance in any way. Your LC should be the first person you call within NWS! YOUR LOCAL COORDINATOR Name: Address: Phone: Fax: For additional assistance, or in the absence of your Local Coordinator, please do not hesitate to call your supervisor for help. A NWS staff member is available 24 hours a day to help you in case of an emergency at YOUR SUPERVISOR Name: Address: Phone: Fax: 5

6 WHAT SHOULD I DO TO PREPARE? A Host Family Orientation will be made available to you by your Local Coordinator before your student arrives. Other host families will be in attendance. This is a wonderful opportunity for you to ask any questions that you may have, and to hear the questions that other families have as well. It is only natural that families hosting students for the first time will have questions. If an experienced family is in attendance, it will be interesting to hear about their experiences and to learn from their adventures. You may have concerns you wish to discuss and discover that other hosting families share similar concerns: I don t have a teenager. What sort of curfew and rules are appropriate? What about emergency medical attention? Who should I call? How far does my financial responsibility extend? How can we assure that our daughter will be best friends with our student? This meeting is your opportunity to meet with other hosting families in your community and to develop an extended family. It is an important part of our total experience and you should make every effort to attend. Please see Pre-Arrival Preparation worksheets in the back of this handbook to help you and your family prepare. 6

7 COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR STUDENT Correspondence with your student and his/her natural parents before their arrival is strongly suggested. This is your opportunity to help your student begin to know you, your family, and your lifestyle before the student s arrival. It is nice to have all members of your family include some information about themselves in your letters. Photos of yourselves and of your home are also important. This might also be a good time to suggest to the student what you would like him/her to call you, whether it is Mom and Dad, or, perhaps, to call you by your first names, or even a family nickname. Students are generally quite relieved when this decision has been made for them. You should, of course, discuss with your own children how they might feel if someone else were to call you Mom and Dad and make your decision accordingly. It might help if you were to place yourselves in the position of the natural family in determining the sort of information you need to share about yourselves. What would you like to know about the family to whom you are sending your child to live with for one year? Make your letters warm and inviting, and as detailed as possible. It is nice if you can include some local maps, community brochures, and even a local newspaper. Sending the school s course catalog, if available, will give your student an opportunity to see the courses offered in the school that he/she will be attending and will help to reduce the anxiety of choosing courses at enrollment time. COMMUNICATION WITH NATURAL FAMILY A separate letter to the natural parents is most appropriate and appreciated. At this time you can focus on your role as a parent, on your values, and the expectations you have of your children. Describe your family rules simply so the natural family can understand and support them. We suggest you also request information from the natural parents about their lifestyle, about foods their son/daughter especially likes or dislikes, and how they handle disciplinary problems. You should also request information as to the best way to handle the money their son/daughter will have. Do they feel that he/she has the experience to be totally responsible for the money they will send, or would they appreciate some assistance from you? As a host family, you are not required to adjust to the style of your student s culture; however, this information you receive from the natural parents can help you better understand your student s behavior and attitudes. Don t worry about whether the natural parents speak or read English; they will ask the student or a friend to translate your letter for them. 7

8 Research information about the country and culture of your student. Americans are notorious for knowing little about other cultures. This is your opportunity to learn about another country from reference and travel books. Of course, your student will be able to give you an inside view of his/her country and culture once he/she has arrived. It will make him/her feel more comfortable knowing that you are truly interested. Perhaps this research will give you insight about the roles of men and women, about the geography of your student s country, and the kind of government and school system to which your student is accustomed. YOUR STUDENT S ROOM Your student s room should be ready for him/her upon arrival. NWS does not require that your student have their own bedroom, however it is required that your student have their own bed, and that if they share a bedroom that it be with another child of the same gender. There must also be a designated area for your student to store their belongings as well as an area for them to study. Study areas can be a desk in their room or space at the dining table after dinner - if it is a shared space, like the dining room table, then you must respect their needs for quietness and concentration. You might want to hang a WELCOME banner or sign on the door. You might also consider placing on a bedside table the following: a small dictionary, important numbers and addresses, a house key, an American flag, and other objects you feel might facilitate an easier integration into the family. Quotes from students: When I first saw my room, it was so warm and comforting. My family had put some pictures of my natural family on the wall. There was a sign on my bedroom door that said WELCOME HOME. I thought it was so nice! Pulling up in front of the house for the first time was indescribable 8

9 HAVING REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS Before your student arrives, each member of your family may have different expectations of what hosting will be like. Your children may hope for the perfect brother/sister they have always dreamed of to be someone who will want to do everything with them. Sometimes these expectations are fulfilled. However, it is more likely that the relationship your family has with your exchange student will be similar to the one you have with each other, exhibiting all the ups and downs that come with living together in a family unit. Keep in mind that families do not do every activity together or get along with each other all the time. Keeping this in mind will help your family to have more realistic expectations about your student and will help to avoid disappointment. You should treat your exchange student as your own child, with the same responsibilities and privileges. Make it clear from the beginning that your student is not a guest, but a family member. He/she should be expected to share the same duties you expect of your own children. Explain what the consequences of certain behaviors will be. This will help to make the adjustment for the student and for your family easier. Don t feel surprised if after the newness wears off, you may begin to feel some disappointment in the hosting experience. This is normal. You are not perfect and neither is your student. Both your family and your student will eventually show normal behavioral traits. Remember to be open and accepting. This will make your experience more pleasant. It is also important to remember to keep your expectations realistic. Exchange students are sometimes expected to be more mature, do better in school, and adjust more than their American peers -- this is an unrealistic expectation! Taking a close look at your family s expectations now will ensure a continued happy, developing relationship once the student arrives. 9

10 YOUR STUDENT ARRIVES That long anticipated date has arrived at last for both you and your student. He/she will probably not have much experience with American customs. This can be extremely frustrating and frightening. Your student will need your support during this initial period of adjustment. Help him/her to feel welcome. Let your weary student know he/she has come home. A large WELCOME banner or sign including your student s name, a bouquet of flowers, some balloons, or even a special dessert you know he/she likes can provide an especially warm welcome. This will probably be your first physical contact with your student. A genuine hug or warm handshake is appropriate. When expressing affection, however, do not pretend feelings that are not yet real. Speak slowly and clearly. Remember that your student will probably have to translate everything you say into his/her native language and then translate the response back in English. This can be frustrating and embarrassing for your student. Give him/her time to think. Smile at those puzzling silences; they will disappear in several months. Student Quotes: When I first met my family in the airport, they had a large sign and even larger smiles. When my host mother hugged me, I KNEW it was all going to be ok. When I saw how happy my host family was to see me and that they ALL came to the airport it put my worries of being accepted aside and made feel welcome and really happy. HELPING YOUR STUDENT ADJUST Your student may be quiet and withdrawn at first. Do not think of this as cold or unfriendly behavior. He/she may be experiencing some homesickness and may be overwhelmed by all the new, different experiences. Because your student is likely to be tired from the long trip and having undergone numerous changes from his/her normal routine, try to keep your schedule relatively simple the first few days after arrival. All travelers experience jet-lag and your student is no exception. The body must re-adjust to another time schedule. This can take a few days. Limit social introductions during the first few days to close friends and family. Short trips around the neighborhood will help orient your student. Don t forget your student will be tired and language strain will be at its peak. Don t start by treating your student as a guest. Involve your student in the day to day responsibilities of your home immediately. This will help him/her feel like a true member of your family. For a few nights allow your student to sleep as much as is necessary. Your student might also be experiencing culture shock, which is explained in another section of this handbook. 10

11 After a few days, it is important that you spend time with your student explaining again your family rules, where everything is kept and how everything operates. Your student may experiment if you do not give him/her help and demonstrations. Little things, like how to drain the tub and which items should not be flushed down the toilet can make a difference to the initial beginning for both the student and the family. We suggest putting your household rules and curfew in writing, and that you discuss these rules in detail. Make certain that your student knows what is expected. You may have different expectations for weekdays and weekends. Let your student know when you will eat your meals and when and if he/she may have a TV or radio on late into the evening. DIET International students tend to overeat when they arrive. They are inclined to especially enjoy junk food. This can lead to unwelcome weight gain and other physical upsets. Your student may also be unaccustomed to your eating habits. Be gentle and understanding of likes and dislikes, while not changing your routine. Do NOT allow the student to receive packages of food from their home country to cook for themselves every day. Allow them to cook a meal for the family once a week, once a month or occasionally. DAILY LIFE IN AMERICA (AT YOUR HOME) Since your student is not a guest in your home and should not be treated as one, it is important that you assign a regular household task to him/her. This allows your student to feel like part of your family. If your student is expected to do his/her own laundry, go through the procedure together several times to ensure the proper operation of your washing machine and dryer. If you elect to do the laundry show your student where to place dirty clothing and how to separate the clothing, if this is the normal routine. Assume he/she knows nothing about the functioning of your family s life and home -- he/she doesn t. Help the student adjust to your lifestyle. This is even truer with the student than with your own children who assimilate certain behavior and procedures. It is very likely that you will have to repeat instructions and rules several times. This is not any different than you may have to do with your own children. It is important for you to remember that your own children had to be taught how to do chores the way you like them done and that they had to be reminded of the rules of your home over the years. Take into consideration that your student has only read your rules, but is not familiar with doing them as you like them done. Consider, also, that your student has been living with someone else s rules and ideas for 15 to 18 years. Teenagers are adaptable, but they must have the opportunity to adjust. Your patience and loving attitude will certainly help your student understand and want to please you. It is important you remain totally open to all discussion at this time. Encourage your student to ask questions whenever he/she doesn t understand what is being said and done. If you have doubt that the student understands your instructions, ask him/her to repeat them back to you. Students are usually quite shy about making 11

12 mistakes and the extra time you take in the beginning to explain yourself will help immensely. LEARNING TO COMMUNICATE As a part of this period of learning and sharing, it is necessary that you speak caringly, and actively listen. Allow the student to fully understand that you want your relationship to be one of open communication. You will probably find that your student speaks very directly. Americans have developed a very tactful manner of speaking (usually referred to as word games ) that often leaves some ideas unclear. Although you may have to work to develop this skill, it will be helpful if you speak directly about a subject or request. For example, the parent who prefers that the student attend a function with the host family should not say, If you want to come with us, you may. This offers the student the choice of attending or not attending with the family. It would be more appropriate to advise your student directly that you would like him/her to attend the upcoming event giving the date and time. Be open to compromise. There will be some points that cannot be compromised, but often a compromise can be reached. For example, a 12:00 midnight curfew might be compromised on one or two special occasions during the year. To discourage the student from disregarding rules, the student must be made aware of the consequences if rules are broken. It is equally important that your student be aware that you will follow through with your commitment to him/her and you expect that he/she will do the same regarding you. While you may not wish to sound harsh or unyielding initially, you will find that your problems will be minimized if you explain things in exacting terms and state clearly what you expect. 12

13 SOME WORDS OF WISDOM Former host families have these words of wisdom that they would like to share: We thought our students would simply learn by watching how our family interacted with each other. I wish now that we had taken the time right from the beginning to explain very carefully what we expected, what we could and could not tolerate, and what sort of consequences could be expected for misconduct. It is not necessary to speak more loudly to help them learn. Slow, simple but direct, and repeatedly are the operative words regarding complete understanding. Once I truly appreciated the fact that there really is no such thing as common sense in culture exchange it helped us tremendously. When my student nodded her head and smiled, I was certain that she understood. I forgot that she might be embarrassed to ask questions or to admit that she didn t understand. I learned to ask her to repeat back to me what she understood from my directions. It might be embarrassing to talk about personal hygiene or morals, but it is more difficult to speak on these subjects when there is already a problem regarding either or both. Students have shared similar thoughts: Once I knew exactly what my family expected of me, we got along great. My own mother always made my bed. I didn t how to make a bed or how to wash clothes. I was really relieved when my host mother took the time to show me how to do things and trusted me to do them -- she is perfect! I guess I was lucky because my host family had patience with me and didn t expect me to be perfect. When I made a mistake or needed guidance, they talked to me about it. 13

14 SIMPLE SAFETY TIPS FOR HOST FAMILIES Inviting an international student into your home is an exciting experience that thousands of host families enjoy every year. It is a time to share your culture, learn about someone else s and develop strong bonds along the way. As you begin this challenging adventure, don t forget that your newest family member comes from a very different background, making what you may consider obvious or normal, unfamiliar and foreign to them. By keeping these simple safety tips in mind, you ll be sure to create a happy and safe environment for our student, both in your home and community. Make certain that your student learns your address and telephone number as soon as possible. Remind them that this information should not be given out to anyone they don t know well, including and perhaps especially over the internet. They should always check with you first. Take your student on a walking tour of the neighborhood. Help him/her learn the surrounding streets and main roads by name and landmark. Determine some public places where they can go for assistance if they are ever lost or in trouble. When you get home, make a map with your student of the routes to school, the store, and other locations that they may visit. Once your student has made new friends at school or in the neighborhood, remind them that they should check first before going out with them. This includes rides or going into homes. Place reasonable limits on your physical interaction. Remember that many students come from cultures which affection is not openly displayed. Respect your student s wishes regarding physical contact, including his/her right to reject displays of affection when it makes them uncomfortable. On the other hand, don t forego a goodnight hug to let them know you do care about them. Reassure your student that there is a strong network of support in place for him/her, including yourself, your Coordinator, Supervisor and central office - make sure they have their Coordinator s phone number. 14

15 CULTURE SHOCK Most people who move to a new culture experience a series of emotional ups and downs while they are living there, especially during the early months when most of the major adjustments are taking place. The emotional low points that go along with adaptation to a new culture may cause your student some anxiety. These down periods are indications that your student is experiencing culture shock. Culture shock is a reaction most people feel when they are cut off from familiar ways of communication and interaction with others. Culture shock is not always easy to notice. It usually builds up slowly, challenging a person s unconscious belief that the way they have always done things in their homeland is the right way to do things. COMMON SYMPTOMS OF CULTURE SHOCK INCLUDE: Homesickness Sleeping too much Inability to concentrate Boredom Negative attitude toward foreign country Over-eating Idealizing homeland Unexpected crying spells Isolation Easily upset Most people react to culture shock in any of three typical ways: They try to make other people do things their way. They isolate themselves from the culture. They learn to adapt. The first two reactions are entirely normal and common, but, in the long run, they do not offer the opportunity to absorb more than just a small part of the new culture. In addition, the first two make it nearly impossible for your student to be successful and can result in major adjustment problems. The third reaction is much more beneficial. 15

16 COUNTERACTING CULTURE SHOCK In order to get the student on the right track in dealing with culture shock, we suggest the following: While you, as a host family, will not experience culture shock, it is important you recognize the symptoms. When you see the first signs, try to encourage the student in more positive directions. Ask your student to share more directly in family activities, such as preparing the meal, walking the dog, raking the yard, washing the car, shopping for groceries, etc. It is important that your student gets involved and stays involved. Encourage him/her to participate in school activities with other students, particularly American students. Most importantly encourage your student to talk to you about his/her feelings. Exchange students seldom admit to experiencing culture shock until after it has passed. A denial of the problem usually prolongs the recovery. Admitting to it demystifies the experience so it can be better understood, resulting in a quicker adjustment period. Encourage your student daily that life will only get better! We encourage students to limit their telephone calls to no more than two a month to home country. Frequent contact with family and friends back home can delay your student s adjustment. The natural parents are aware of these suggested limitations and will probably be supportive of the necessity for limited contact, especially in the early months. Students who spend more than one hour per week on phone or / internet with their home country experience adjustment problems. Please limit your student on these. Of course, we encourage students to use the internet for homework, projects, communication with their teachers etc., we are simply suggesting that their time be monitored and used strictly for academics. Your student will certainly have periods of homesickness, especially around special holidays. Perhaps you might ask him/her to share some special celebrations with your family which you might be able to incorporate in your own festivities. This can be a wonderful learning experience for your family as well. TYPICAL ADJUSTMENT CYCLE 1. Honeymoon Period Everyone remembers new beginnings. Everything is new, exciting, and wonderful! There is usually great enthusiasm shown by your student. 2. My Country/Culture is Better When everything is different from the familiar culture, some things may begin to look stupid, and your student has a tendency to want to enjoy the way life was back home. Now, the real adjustment begins! Food, attitudes, TV commercials, etc., can be under attack. He/she may be tired of trying as the result of experiencing cultural fatigue. 16

17 3. Good and Bad in Everything This is the time when the student really begins to make the effort to adjust. He/she is no longer threatened by a new culture and new ideas. Your student s fluency in English is improving rapidly at this time, as well. He/she may forget how to say certain things in the native language and unconsciously speak to the natural parents in English when beginning a conversation. 4. Bi-Cultural At this stage your student has close friends and begins to feel almost like an American. It is also at this time that your student begins to realize that this special year does have an end, and that it may be coming all too quickly. Relationships with the host family and friends will become deeper and stronger. SUCCESS IS NOT AN ACCIDENT We all know that success requires effort. Having a successful hosting experience is no different. Keep in mind that communication is the key to success. If the student is doing something that annoys or bothers you or your family (even a little) sit them down and speak with them about it right away. If you do not address these items when they happen they will grow bigger in a short time. Please remember that things American s consider common sense may differ in different countries/cultures. Be patient and willing to teach; be open, honest and willing to communicate. Please be sure to take a few minutes to answer the questions in the Pre-arrival Preparation Worksheet toward the back of the handbook. As the year progresses, you will see the rewards of your effort. Thousands of former host families attest to the fact that hosting was an enriching experience and well worth their time. Below, we have listed various subjects and ask that you consider each subject in regard to your own family. SMOKING All NWS students are asked on their application if they smoke. The students have all been advised that if they indicated on their application that they do not smoke, they will be expected to live with that statement, unless they reported the change to their interviewing staff. Openly discuss this issue with your student should it become a problem. NWS does not allow any high school student to smoke. Students are expected to abide by the laws of the state they are living in. They are not allowed to smoke, even if they are the legal age limit. If this is violated, it is considered a serious problem under our program rules and the student will be put on probation or most likely sent home. 17

18 LAPTOP If your student decides to bring their laptop, they are aware of the following rules they will need to follow: Use ONLY English, except when communicating with parents. They will have 1 (ONE) hour per week to /facebook/im/skype/etc. with family and friends in your home country, instead of using the phone. Their laptop will only be used in the presence of their host family, in the main portion of the home not in their bedroom. Failure to follow these rules can result in their laptop being taken from them. CELL PHONE If your student decides to bring their cell phone, they are aware of the following rules they will need to follow: Use only for calls within the United States. Use for pictures. Students are NOT permitted to enter into a binding contract while in the U.S., that includes cell phone contracts. No international texting permitted. Student should provide their coordinator with their phone number before arriving into the U.S. Failure to follow these rules can result in their cell phone being taken from them. The reason NWS has these rules is to minimize contact with the student s home country. It is not to be mean but instead, to help students adjust here. YEARS of experience has taught us that when a student s heart and head are too involved with their home country, friends and family they don t have emotional energy left for new American friends and family. Our goal is to give the students a few months of limited contact with their family and friends back home, allowing them to become adjusted and adapted here. You will soon know your new son or daughter and will be able to gage their homesickness and decide how much contact is needed or not needed. We want all of students and host families to have a successful exchange! ALCOHOL/DRUGS NWS students fully understand that they are not allowed to use drugs, nor alcohol, if they are under the legal drinking age. In many areas, teenage drinking is a serious problem. Discuss this issue with your student. Point out that he/she must never ride in a car with a person who has been drinking. Remind them again that drinking while in the United States is prohibited so naturally, they should also not drive while under the influence of alcohol. If this situation arises, you are to be called. Students may be confused when they attend a party where alcohol is being consumed by teenagers. Help them to understand the consequences of drinking (possible dismissal from the program) and how they may be guilty by association if in the presence of drinking teenagers. Explain that they can be arrested. 18

19 RELIGION While we do expect our students to fully participate in host family activities, we must also allow for their own religious beliefs. On the student application we ask for information regarding the student s choice of religion and attendance. At no time should a student feel pressured to change his/her religion, attend church, or to become a member of any church. DATING/SEX It is true that people have individual views on dating and sex. Therefore, our students are going to have their own cultural views, as well. Your student s cultural values on dating and sex may differ from your own family s values. While your student has been advised of the differences regarding dating and views and restrictions concerning dating and sex in America, you should offer information about your personal views and restrictions concerning the same subjects. This is an area in which we particularly encourage you to be open and direct in your discussions. NWS does NOT allow students to be sexually active while on program. We consider this a life changing decision. We believe this is not appropriate behavior for an exchange student who is considered an ambassador for their country as well as other exchange students. NWS considers it to be inappropriate for an exchange student to participate in this type of behavior while living with a host family. MEETING PEOPLE Such a simple thing to do, right? Maybe not! While we envision the opportunities that are open to our students (e.g. classes each day, a crowded lunchroom, an overcrowded school bus, etc.), we must remember that these students are moving into an entirely new environment. In their native country they are accustomed to friends that they see every day in their classrooms and at lunch, some of whom they have grown up with. To relieve initial apprehension, you may find it necessary to suggest ways that your student can meet new friends. Small gatherings are conducive for meeting people and having long conversations with them. Clubs at school are usually small enough for the student to be noticed and to receive some attention. Sports and music activities also serve as great opportunities to meet people. The youth group at a local church could be another way for your student to meet potential friends. Again, small groups tend to lead to more interaction. Whenever a group gets together in the same setting for a period of time, acquaintances can become friends. Keep in mind how awkward you or your child might feel, given the same situation in a foreign country. To relieve initial apprehension, you may find it necessary to suggest your student try an activity. 19

20 One of the worst mistakes made by exchange students is to isolate themselves with other foreign students. While this may seem comfortable to your student, primarily because of a common language, Americans are getting the message that your student is not interested in them. It is important that your student becomes involved with American students from the beginning. It is always a sad realization when exchange students discover at the end of their program year that although they have been in the U.S. for an extended period, they have not experienced America. This can and does happen to students who are not encouraged and/or not required to become part of the family, school and community. FINANCIAL MATTERS We hope that your student has arrived with a debit or credit card. This is the preferred method for their cash resources. If not, NWS strongly recommends that you introduce your exchange student to someone at your bank and assist him/her in opening an account. It may take several weeks before your student s check clears and the account is opened. He/she should understand this and should have sufficient funds available to cover this period. In your letters to your student and his/her natural family, explain this situation and help clarify it before your student arrives. It is suggested that your student should have a debit card upon arrival. It is important to consider the initial costs of starting school when recommending how much that amount should be. School fees, yearbooks, school newspapers, sports fees, driver s education fees, and some spending money should all be considered in your recommendation. Once your student has arrived, it is important to discuss a budget with him/her. A budget of $200 to $300 per month is suggested to most students. Your community may require more or less. Initially, you may find that your student spends a lot of money on American items which may seem new and less expensive than he/she is accustomed to. If your student seems to be spending irresponsibly, we recommend you discuss this situation with him/her. Excessive spending may cause bad feelings with other family members, considering that you are asking your student to become a part of your family and to fit into your lifestyle. Host siblings can be especially upset if the situation is not addressed early. Your student has been advised to pay for personal items, such as haircuts, clothing, entertainment, school supplies, medical and dental costs not covered by insurance, stamps, gifts, optional travel, and meals away from home. School lunches are considered the student s responsibility, should he/she opt not to take a packed lunch with food items from your home. It is advised that your student bring or buy pre-paid phone card or call collect if using your phone. NWS host families and exchange students should not borrow or loan money from or to each other. Should your student need assistance in receiving money from natural parents, please do not hesitate to contact your Local Coordinator. 20

21 EMPLOYMENT Students with J-1 visas may not have jobs while in the U.S. The student may earn some money by doing informal part-time work that is not on a regular basis. The student may not work more than 10 hours per week. The types of jobs that your student may do are baby-sitting, tutoring, yard work, and the like. TRANSPORTATION/DRIVING Some students will be within walking distance of their high school. Other students may find it necessary to ride a school bus or to arrange transportation with friends, possibly by way of a carpool. We suggest that you discuss this situation with your student and advise him/her of the options available. In the case of riding with a friend in a carpool, advise your student that a contribution to help with the purchase of gas is appropriate. Often American students will not accept money easily for gas expenses. If this is the case, your student might offer to buy lunch for the friend, or to give a gift occasionally as reciprocation for the friendly deed. Please make your student aware of this kind of consideration for others. Your student has been advised to discuss his/her transportation needs (in addition to school related ones) with you. Again, we suggest you make known your schedule, your family rules, and restrictions regarding transportation with other students. NWS students are not allowed to drive motorized vehicles at any time during their stay in the United States. The only exception to this rule is driving while under the supervision of a certified Driver s Education Instructor. Students are allowed to participate in a Driver s Education Program if it is offered at their high school and they have written permission from the natural parents. They may obtain a driver s license while in America, but cannot drive. Breaking this rule can result in dismissal from the program. TRAVEL Your student has been made aware of the NWS rules regarding travel. While we hope that our students get to travel and see some of America, travel is not the main purpose of the program. Rather, it is to share day-to-day life with an American family. The rules concerning travel are: All trips must be approved by the LC, Supervisor/NWS Director and host family. If the student is traveling with a church or school group out of state or country, or traveling with anyone other than the host family (tour groups) then the natural family s approval is also needed. Dates of travel, destination of travel and emergency phone numbers need to be provided to the LC. 21

22 Students may not miss their classes in order to travel, unless the trip is sponsored by the high school or NWS. NWS students may not return to their home country at any time during the program unless there is a death or imminent death of a close family member. In this situation an addendum must be added to the DS2019 to permit a second entry into the U.S. The student must overnight their DS2019 in a secure manner (FedEx or UPS) with a tracking system to the NWS Central Office, 1415 W. Franklin St. Boise, ID Be sure to include a prepaid overnight return envelope (using a secure manner) to receive the DS2019 back in time for travel. No travel during major holidays, unless it is with the host family. No travel when the host family has other plans. For example: special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries. No travel when the student is on probation without approval from the supervisor. Student cannot travel alone. Student must travel with an adult who is 25 years or older. Parents, relatives and friends are not allowed to visit, nor is the student allowed to visit or meet them, until the last month of program, usually after school is out. Do not assume that if the natural parents are in the U.S. during a holiday that it is all right for the student to travel with them. It will not be allowed. The student must notify their LC of all their travel arrangements in a timely manner (preferred two weeks) PRIOR to travel. The student must notify their LC of all visits from natural family, arranged at the end of program. The U.S. Department of State has determined that the end of program is to be within 2 weeks of the students last day of school. The Department of State has also determined that we, NW Services, Inc., are responsible for a student until their visa has been cancelled. Therefore, we have determined the following: Students must have return flights within 2 weeks of their school ending. If a host family or student would like to request an exception, please have them contact their supervisor. 22

23 DIFFERENT WAYS TO TRAVEL Student(s) may participate in a group tour during school if they have received written permission and are in good academic and behavioral standing. Travel with their LC is optional and they will be responsible for all their own expenses. NWS cannot take any responsibility for any trips offered by organized tour groups or NWS LC s who arrange these on their own. Travel with others. Student must travel with an adult of 25 years of age or older. Travel with their host family. DOCUMENTS NEEDED FOR TRAVEL A Student Travel Request Form. This must be completely filled out, including all required signatures. Please see sample form in front of the student handbook. Letter from adult with whom they plan to travel with indicating that they will take responsibility for the student. Letter of permission from the natural parents (when applicable). In addition, the permission to travel form must be signed in their application. All of the above should be received by their LC for signature PRIOR to travel (preferred three weeks prior). Please do not buy travel tickets or pay for any reservation until travel is approved. 23

24 TRAVEL OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES If the student will travel outside the U.S., we advise you to contact the consulate of the country you will be visiting well in advance to see if your student will need a special visa. The country you are visiting may not require a visa for the citizens of some nationalities, but may require it for others. If the student is traveling outside of the U.S. an addendum must be added to the DS2019 to permit a second entry into the U.S. The student must mail their DS2019 (30+ days prior to travel) in a secure manner (FedEx or UPS) with a tracking system to the NWS Central Office, 1415 W. Franklin St. Boise, ID Be sure to include a prepaid return envelope (using a secure manner) to receive the DS2019 back in time for travel. NWS cannot take responsibility for the outcome of students traveling to other countries. NWS must have approval from the natural family for a student to leave the country with their host family. If a student travels overseas with their host family or school, they must contact their LC at least 30 days in advance so that the proper paperwork and procedures can be followed. NECESSARY TRAVEL DOCUMENTS (STUDENTS MUST KEEP WITH THEM AT ALL TIMES). Passport. DS2019 Visa form: Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor s Status. U.S. Visa: a stamp that the U.S. Consulate puts in their passport. Exit Customs Form: this form requires information about the student and about what they are currently taking with them (currency, valuable objects, drugs, weapons). The student should not take objects that are considered antiques. I-94 Card: This will no longer be distributed as a paper form upon entry. Participants will receive a stamp on their travel documents. NATURAL PARENT VISITS You may encounter yet another issue sometime during the year that can be sensitive if not addressed directly. This is the issue of visits from the natural family or friends. These visits can be disruptive to your student, especially early in the program year. For this reason, NWS has a rule that natural family or friends not visit prior to the end of their program. This rule is in the best interest of your student. 24

25 It is important that an open discussion be held with your student regarding such visits, with the following points to be clarified: Are visits planned during the year by natural parents or friends? On what dates are visits planned? (It is appropriate to remind students of the NWS rule). Where will the visitors stay during their visit? (NWS encourages you to remember that you decided to host a student, not the student s natural family or friends). Accommodations for visitors should be arranged by the student, and it is recommended that accommodations be made at a nearby hotel. What is the length of the visit? Will your student be traveling with visitors? Travel for your student must not interfere with school. It is suggested that you review with your student the NWS rules regarding student travel as found in the NWS Student Handbook. It is strongly suggested that you, as the hosting family, feel comfortable regarding visits from natural family members, as well as friends. If for any reason you are not comfortable with this situation, you should make you feelings very clearly known. Problems can arise as a result from these visits. Some students are confused by a sense of obligation to two sets of parents. They often experience extreme loneliness and/or homesickness when natural parents or friends depart, causing additional unnecessary problems. Natural parents may leave with uneasy feelings about the relationship their son/daughter has developed with the host family. These feelings can cause problems for your student even after returning to his/her native country. 25

26 THE HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCE Your student will probably find the high school experience the most difficult and exciting part of the NWS Program. It would be helpful to take your student on a tour of the high school prior to the actual start of classes. Perhaps he/she can meet the principal and/or teachers. It would also be helpful to arrange for a class buddy to assist your student for the first few days of school. This will make your student feel more secure about this part of the exchange experience. Your student is aware that grade level and class selection will be determined by school personnel and that these decisions must be respected by NWS and the student. NWS requires students to enroll in at least one English, and one History or American Government course. We encourage them to take a well-rounded schedule, one which will allow for success as well as for a challenging experience. In most cases, exchange students are not allowed to graduate. Whatever the school policy, your student will be expected to respect the decisions of the school and obey all school rules and regulations regarding behavior, attendance, etc. In addition, NWS requires that students maintain a minimum C grade in each class. Your student should forward a copy of his/her grade report to your Local Coordinator immediately after it is distributed. Should your student encounter academic problems, please contact your Local Coordinator. He/she can work with school personnel to assess the situation and to provide support. In addition, it will be helpful to your student if you assist him/her with homework assignments initially, or offer suggestions on study habits. This togetherness can add a special dimension to your friendship with your student and allows you to take an active role in his/her life. For a well rounded experience, NWS also highly recommends that exchange students get involved in school sports and extra-curricular clubs. These can broaden their cultural experiences and be a great way to make new American friends. 26

27 WHAT IF PROBLEMS ARISE? It is the intent of this handbook to offer advice and to suggest ways to help you make this experience a success. You may find that at various times things do seem to be working out. Remember the line of communication. If problems do arise, you should discuss them openly with your student and your Local Coordinator. It is not appropriate to discuss personal family matters with others. Gossiping is not fair and would not be appreciated by yourselves or your student. It is important to maintain a close relationship with your Local Coordinator. Do not be afraid to call him/her. Your Local Coordinator may have had experience in working with problems similar to those which you are experiencing. They appreciate what you are offering to a foreign student and are willing to listen, but to do so objectively. Many host families have made the mistake of withholding pertinent information from the LC for fear of getting the student in trouble, and in an effort to win the allegiance of the student. This method of deferring discipline will only hurt the student and your relationship with him/her in the long run. Please do not wait to contact your LC until the problem is so large that there is no chance of reconciliation. If your LC is not available, you may contact the supervisor or the NWS Central Office at (888) ACADEMIC AND BEHAVIORAL WARNING / PROBATION Local Coordinators work with students objectively to try to resolve any problems which exist. If a student displays signs of academic or behavioral problems, the LC may institute a warning agreement with the student. This agreement will be written. The purpose is to alert the student to problems and to specifically point them out. In many cases, the 1 st disciplinary step of a warning corrects the negative attitude or behavior. If it does not, the next step is Probation. Being placed on probation is a very serious matter. The probation is designed to give the student written notice of the areas which need immediate improvement and to give them the opportunity to make the changes necessary to stay in the program. When necessary, a student is sent an official probation letter directly from NWS. A copy of this letter is normally forwarded to the home country office and to the natural parents of the student. The probation can be one of two types, or a combination of both. Academic probation is issued when a student does not meet the academic standard set by NWS. This includes not maintaining a C grade average in each class, being absent from class too frequently, not making the appropriate effort, and other academic deficiencies. Behavioral probation is instituted once a student s behavior and/or attitude becomes unacceptable. This can include a wide variety of issues, including being disrespectful, not completing chores, curfew violations, negative attitude, being argumentative, 27

28 breaking host family rules, and so on. Once a student is on probation they remain on probation until the end of the program. HOST FAMILIY CHANGES Approximately 20% of all students placed in an American home will require a host family change sometime during the year. While this number may sound large, it is important to focus on the fact that 80% of the students never require a second host family. There are two types of student moves: situational moves and adjustment related moves. A situational move can be caused by a change in the host family status, such as relocation, unforeseen financial hardship, or anything which alters the family. Adjustment related moves are more common. These occur when, after much effort, either the student or host family (or both) cannot adjust to life with one another. Host family changes occur only when absolutely necessary and are initiated only after much consideration. It is the responsibility of the LC to determine when and if a host family change is necessary. Students are not permitted to make this decision for themselves. Of course, if a host family requests that a student be removed, we must respect that, but we encourage conflict resolution first, if possible! If your LC determines that a host family change is required, he/she will work as quickly as possible to relocate the student. The LC may ask that the student remain in your home for a short time (approximately two weeks) while a new host family is found, screened and interviewed. Your student will most likely continue to be enrolled in the same school he/she is attending, since it is the intent of the program to maintain some stability in the life of the student. While host family changes are difficult for all persons concerned, it is important the host family not delay asking for a change if they truly feel a move is necessary. Host families often feel they have failed in such cases and find themselves feeling embarrassed at their imagined failure. It is vital for host families to remember that correcting a situation which is not working out is not failure. It is the best thing to do for all parties involved, and brings constructive insights to future pursuits. Should this occur, it is important to acknowledge the change without placing blame and to be aware of both the positive and the negative aspects of the experience. 28

29 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES DEFINITION OF EMERGENCY: Serious medical illness or accident of exchange student OR host family member. Death of an exchange student OR host family member Incident of abuse - physical or sexual - of exchange student THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURES SHOULD BE FOLLOWED IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY: Prioritize student s safety. If possible, bring a copy of the student s medical information contained in the student application you were given to the doctor/hospital. Bring a copy of the medical waiver signed by the natural parents giving permission for medical treatment to the student. Host family/local Coordinator takes student to the nearest medical emergency center, taking along a copy of the Medical Information from student application. All hosts are sent a full copy of their student s application at placement time. The NWS LC should be contacted as soon as possible. In case of serious medical emergency, the LCs should remain in constant contact with the student, lending support to both the student and host family. Host family/local Coordinator should contact the NWS office immediately, using the 24-hour telephone number NWS will immediately contact the overseas agent. The overseas agent will contact the natural parents. Parents usually react better and confusion is avoided if the message is given in their native language. At a later time, both sets of parents should speak to clarify all information and to support one another. The LC should prepare a written report in case of a serious emergency. The LC can assist the student in filing the appropriate insurance documents if the family is unable to do so. 29

30 DEATH IN THE STUDENT S NATURAL FAMILY Host family/lc contact the NWS office to report the death. NWS office will contact the overseas agent to ascertain whether or not the natural family desires the student to return to his/her country to attend services. If necessary, the LC will assist the student in making travel arrangements to return home. DEATH OF A STUDENT The Local Coordinator or host family will immediately notify the NWS office giving the following information: Hospital name, address, and telephone number, if student was admitted to the hospital. Time and date of admittance. Attending physician s name and telephone number. Place where student s belongings are located. Name and telephone number of police officer involved, if applicable. NWS will make arrangements with authorities and the nearest consulate of the student s home country for repatriation of body. NWS will notify the overseas agent, who will in turn, notify the natural parents. NATURAL DISASTERS (earthquakes, tornadoes, etc.) 1. Local Coordinator will see to the safety of all NWS students. 2. Local Coordinator will contact NWS as soon as possible, detailing the current situation with all students, including their location and next contact. MISSING STUDENT 1. Host Family/Local Coordinator will notify the police. 2. Local Coordinator will notify NWS. 3. NWS will notify the overseas agent. 4. Overseas agent will notify natural parents. 5. LC will stay in contact with local authorities to gather updated information. 30

31 SAYING GOODBYE Most students will be able to adjust to the changes that an academic year abroad requires, and will mature throughout the enriching experience. Usually spring is the most enjoyable part of the exchange experience, as the student has overcome most adjustment problems and has truly adapted to his/her culture. Relationships have grown, the weather begins to brighten and the excitement of school activities abounds. Your student will begin to think of returning home, more mature from the experience, with many exciting tales to tell. Hopefully your family will have had an experience which was very positive and one that will never be forgotten. You will feel good knowing you shared your home and culture with a foreign student and did your part to bring the world closer together. NWS provides students with re-entry training during the last month of their stay. This session helps prepare the students to re-enter their own culture and life back home. There are discussions about what the students have learned, how they have changed, and how it will be to go home. Most students find that they have become bi-cultural, a part of them forever American. It is often surprisingly difficult to re-enter their previous lifestyle so we strongly suggest they attend this meeting to prepare. NWS appreciates your commitment to international youth exchange. Hosting a student will be an enlightening experience for your entire family. We hope that the insight you gain from this handbook will make your expectations about the hosting experience more realistic, and that it contributes to the successful year you will have with your student. Should any questions or concerns arise, do not hesitate to contact your LC, supervisor or the NWS central office. We hope you will consider being a host family for a new son or daughter next year or in the near future. Each hosting experience is unique and special, giving your family an opportunity to build life-long friends in other countries. Every year at this time we are looking for host families for new deserving young people coming into the program. Call your local coordinator if you are willing and able to host again! We have many repeat host families and are so thankful for you all! Lastly, we want to deeply thank you for opening your hearts and homes to an exchange student. Programs like NW Services PEACE Program could not offer this wonderful opportunity to international youth without generous volunteers like you. We would like to remind you that you are eligible to deduct $50 per month from your taxes for hosting. Please talk to your accountant about this for more details. 31

32 PRE-ARRIVAL PREPARATION WORKSHEETS Take a few minutes now to prepare and you will avoid issues on these topics in the future. We strongly suggest that you give a copy of these worksheets to your student so they can use it for future reference. General: TOPICS TO DISCUSS WITH YOUR STUDENT: (These are guidelines please adjust to fit your family s particular needs) Meals Times (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner) What to do if they can t make it home for a meal? Do they have permanent responsibilities in regard to mealtimes, such as setting the table, clearing the dishes, washing or drying dishes etc? Can they take a snack? What foods they can eat? What should be put in the refrigerator? What should be kept in the freezer? Are there certain restrictions or limits on food consumption? Laundry is the student responsible for doing their own laundry? If so, please show them how to use the washer/dryer. Where should they place their dirty clothes, linens, towels? What areas of the home are public areas and what areas of the house are totally private? Household Duties: Laundry Cleaning the bathroom Keeping their room clean Helping with meals Yard work Other: Social Activities: May they have friends visit in their bedroom and can they shut the door when they are visiting? If not, where can they visit with friends in the house? Going to parties Staying at a friend s house Curfews: What time must the student get up on Weekdays/Weekends? What time must the student go to bed School night/holidays/weekends? What time student must be home on a school night/weekends How late can the student watch TV or listen to music at home What should the student do if they will be home late? 32

33 Rules About Guests and Friends: Can they use the stereo? TV? How late may they use these for when friends are over? Rules for using the kitchen with friends? Can they have a friend spend the night? Can they have friends over during the day? Bathroom Use in the Morning (if sharing with siblings/host parents): If they share a bathroom - who goes first? When and how often they can shower/bathe? What can/cannot be flushed in the toilet? Where can they keep their personal toilet articles? Are there restrictions on the # of showers taken a day? Personal Hygiene: Use of deodorants Bathing/Showering daily (many cultures only bathe weekly) Smoking (not allowed). It is against the law for anyone under 18 to smoke and breaking any laws are subject to immediate expulsion from the program. Rules for Home Phone Use: What the rules regarding phone use? (length of call/frequency) What is the latest time they may make/receive phone calls? No long distance calls without permission (NWS strongly suggests students use a pre-paid phone card to call their native country) Communication with home should only be 1hr a week. School: NWS is a U.S. State Department academic program. Students are required to maintain minimum grade performance of C s or better Travel Vacations & Cost: What portion of trip costs you expect the student to pay? Planned family vacation dates - the student should be advised of the costs and dates as soon as possible so that they may arrange with their natural parents for the funds to cover the trip. Computer Use & Limits: When the student may use (time, how long, what for)? Per NWS program rules, students are not allowed to and/or have chat room discussions with their friends back home except once per week for 1 hour. 33

34 Cell Phone Use & Limits: (Also see NWS rules) Check with your local high school, many do not allow students to bring cell phones to school. No International texting is permitted. Local texting should be kept to a minimum and is at the discretion of the Host Family. Transportation: (to/from sports/social life/extra curricular activities etc.) Discuss transportation to or from school What should the student do if they miss the bus? Discuss transportation to/from recreational activities and what is reasonable for your family What to do if they must stay after school for help or activities? Try to encourage car pools and suggest they help pay for gas if a friend drives them somewhere. Who Pays When: Discuss who will pay when you go out to dinner When you go to the movies Admission fees When you rent videos Overnight Stays Away From Host Family Home: Bus tickets/personal transportation Other situations that apply to your family Host Family Quirks Is there anything the student needs to know to prevent embarrassment or annoyance such as closing doors, taking the last coke, borrowing a tennis racket, finishing the juice? Notes: 34

35 PROGRAM RULES These are the legal terms students must comply with and also defines the responsibilities of NWS. All participants in the NWS J1 Visa High School Exchange Visitor Program must be between the ages of 15 and 18.5 years at the time of their arrival into the U.S. Participants must be a high school student in good standing and who have completed NO more than 11 years of secondary education in their home country. NWS students must been in good health upon enrollment and remain that way during the entire program. NWS reserves the right to terminate program participation if a student s physical or mental health status changes and requires medical attention beyond the capacity of NWS or the host family. This includes eating disorders. NWS will provide all students with medical insurance. NWS will provide host family information no later than August 31 st for academic year students or January 15 th for a January semester or fully year student. No flight date to the U.S. will be set until a placement is finalized. NWS does not guarantee placement in a specific high school grade, availability of specific courses at the high school, graduation from the high school, or participation in school sports teams or activities. All of these are determined by the individual U.S. school districts and schools and not under the control of NWS. NWS students and their natural families are responsible for any damages or destruction of property or an injury to persons inflicted or caused by a student while participating in the program. Neither NWS nor the host family is responsible for any property damaged or destroyed by the student or for any liability which results from the student s activities while participating in the program. 35

36 NWS has a procedure for communication between natural parents and NWS during the program operation. Natural parents should always communicate with the Overseas Partner in the home country and not directly with LCs in the U.S. NWS cannot take responsibility for any problems that may occur due to failure to follow these procedures. Natural parents must support the host family s decisions on matters of behavior and discipline and agree that during their child s adjustment period. They will not be in constant contact with them. Failure to regulate their contact may jeopardize the student s continuation in the program. NWS will make every attempt to deal fairly with any problems that may occur during the program year. The final decision concerning dismissals will be the responsibility of NWS. Students must have return flights within 2 weeks of their school ending. The only EXCEPTIONS are: The host family makes a request to NW Services, Inc. for the student to remain longer. In this case the student visa would end on June 30, as well as their insurance, and they would have 30 days to return home. Students who wish to travel with their natural family past the 2 week period must be released from the program. We have a new release form that has been approved by the Department of State that must be used. The release must be dated with the date of the natural family s arrival to the host family home/community. The release form must be notarized or legally validated in their home country. Students wishing to travel on their own or stay with another family, their visa and insurance will be cancelled on the date on their program release or when the student leaves the host family home. Same as above, the release form must be filled out by the natural family and notarized or legally validated in their home country. The student will then have 30 days from the date of cancellation to return to their home country. The legal age in the U.S. for buying and smoking cigarettes is 18 years old. NO student is allowed to smoke while on the NWS program, regardless of age. 36

37 If you chose to drink or take drugs while in the U.S. you are breaking the law and it will lead to your dismissal from the program. Do NOT get into a motorized vehicle with a driver who has been drinking or doing any drugs. Students are forbidden to hitchhike. Do not hitchhike under any circumstances, even if you are with a friend. Many hitchhikers are victims of crimes every year in the U.S. As an international student, you must obey the laws of the United States government as well as those in your state and community. The penalties for not obeying laws can be more severe for you, as you may be deported (sent home to your home country). Should you break a law, NWS cannot take legal responsibility for the outcome, nor will NWS be responsible for supplying legal counsel to you. Holidays must be spent with your host family. Visits from your parents, relatives and friends should not take place without permission from the NWS Central Office or your Supervisor. These types of visits are never allowed before the end of your program. 37