High School is generally regarded as a time for learning—not only academically, but socially as well. And what better way to learn about a culture than to immerse yourself in it? Academic Year in America (AYA) is a non-profit organization that pairs teenagers from 45 different countries with host families all across the United States, including right here in Middle Tennessee.

Host families go through a detailed screening process and must be able to provide room and board for a student who becomes part of their family for a semester or a full school year. Families can also apply to be a “welcome family,” hosting for just a few days until a student is placed, or an “emergency family,” offering temporary housing when needed. Interestingly, many who begin as temporary hosts end up becoming what the organization calls “True Host Families,” choosing to host for a semester—or even longer. To ensure a great fit, students are encouraged to share their interests and hobbies so they can be matched with families who have similar passions.

Local Coordinator Kelley White says, “Most students have such a great time here they are usually devastated when they leave.”

Often, the bond between host families and students lasts well beyond the exchange year, with many families traveling overseas to visit their former "sons" or "daughters" in their home countries. While here, however, students are encouraged to limit frequent contact with their families back home.

‍“Too much contact can cause them to be homesick and stay homesick. Once they start to make friends, it gets much easier for them,” Kelley explains. She notes that the first month in a new school and culture can be tough, which is why kindness from classmates makes a big difference. “Please, if you see a student at your school, say hi. Smile. A little goes a long way.”

White House resident and host mom, Carianne Koschak, says her family’s experience with AYA has been a joy. Alex, a student from Germany, is staying with the Koschaks this academic year, attending White House Heritage High School. Already involved in sports, Carianne says that he "has come to the perfect family for his experiences."

Like Alex, many AYA students arrive fluent in English and ready to dive into school life and American culture. Currently, there are three other AYA students in the Nashville area: a boy from Italy, a boy from Brazil, and another girl from Germany. Germany, in fact, sends more students through AYA than any other country. “We were excited to share our home with a student and introduce our kids to other cultures,” Carianne says.

Kelley sums up her passion for the program beautifully: “With AYA, I get to live my calling—changing students’ lives. Ensuring they are cared for, nurtured, and welcomed into loving host families is a responsibility I hold close to my heart.”

If this sounds like an experience you’d like for your family, you can learn more at www.academicyear.org