TEXT: Each year the U.S. State Department hosts approximately 2,900 high school students from around the world. Here are some of the host parent’s stories ...

RONALD BURGESS (HOST PARENT): I have learned more about the world by hosting students than I learned all through my elementary school, my high school and even college. I’ve learned more by experience.

DEBBIE GRINNELL (HOST PARENT): These are such exceptional children.

TIMOTHY BOYD (DIR. STUDENT SERVICES W. POTOMAC HS): The experiences I’ve seen between host families and students from other places they have been lasting friendships and relationships for the lifetime.

RAWIYA QUEDGHIRI (YES-MOROCCO): It’s like if they’re my family here.

RONALD BURGESS (HOST PARENT): You have such joy in having the student in your home and you can make a difference in someone else’s life.

DEBBIE GRINNELL (HOST PARENT): You know, I would just, these children do not need a lot. It’s mainly just the love that they need.

RONALD BURGESS (HOST PARENT): I would say go for it. It is the greatest experience you’ll ever have. I mean it really is. It certainly changed my life.

TEXT: Consider hosting. For more info, visit: www.hoststudents.org.