What is Rotary Youth Exchange?

As a Rotary Youth Exchange participant, you will live with host families in a country other than your own. You will learn a new way of living, maybe a new language, and a great deal about yourself. As you are learning, you will also be teaching the people you meet about your country, your culture, and your ideas. You will be a young ambassador helping to bring the world closer together and making many new friends in the process. Why should I attend? Experience our world in a way that you never thought possible. living in and learning about a different culture first hand changes one's viewpoint on the world we live in and encourages young minds to think globally. Develop a better understanding of your worldwide neighbourhood. young people who have a desire to make our world a better place will be presented with opportunities in any one of 20 different countries in Europe, Asia and Latin America. Gain a network of friends that is truly worldwide. the international organization of Rotary brings together students from all corners of our world in the spirit of friendship and understanding. It's EDUCATIONAL. this is your chance to learn and enjoy The Alps, The Great Barrier Reef, the sands of Rio or the beauty of Budapest. You will see sights that many people will only see in books or on television and they will be part of your world as you become a world traveler. There are TWO Rotary Youth Exchange programs for you to consider. Long Term Youth Exchange (August -July) You will spend ONE YEAR living and studying as a Youth Exchange student in another country. During your stay you will attend school while living with one or more host families. To ensure the well-being of all Youth Exchange participants, the local Rotary Club in your host country will carefully screen prospective host families and select those who will provide you with a safe and caring environment throughout the year. Selection interviews are held by sponsoring Rotary Clubs in the fall. Short Term Youth Exchange (Summer, July & August) Matched with a student in another country, you will spend 3-4 WEEKS during the summer living abroad with his/her family. In exchange, your 'host' brother or sister will join you and your family at your home for a similar length of time. Selection interviews are held by sponsoring Rotary Clubs in the spring. What is Rotary? Rotary International is a worldwide humanitarian service organization. Rotarians are business and professional leaders who volunteer their time and resources to help others in their local communities and throughout the world. Rotary Clubs carry out a variety of service projects that address such critical issues as poverty, hunger, illiteracy, substance abuse, and pollution. Service to youth is a major emphasis among Rotarians. Working with and for tomorrow's leaders, Rotary Clubs sponsor service clubs for youth and young adults and offer career development and mentoring programs. Rotary Youth Exchange is administered by local Rotary Clubs and districts. With more than 32,596 clubs world-wide, Rotary has an extensive network of volunteers ready to ensure the necessary support for the program. Rotary Clubs have sponsored successful international Youth Exchanges for more than 30 years. Who is eligible? To qualify as an ideal Rotary Youth Exchange student you are: * 15 - 18 years old * an above-average student who has demonstrated leadership in your community * a resident of Rotary District 7090* * a citizen of Canada or the USA in good health * open-minded, tolerant and willing to try new things *Relatives of Rotarians and non-Rotarians alike are eligible. All applicants must be sponsored by a local Rotary Club and complete a written application and oral interview. Are you ready to. * Form international friendships * Learn new ways to communicate * Gain a fresh understanding of yourself and others * Immerse yourself in a different culture * Appreciate others' ways of doing things * Act as an ambassador for and educate others about your country Then you are ready for Rotary Youth Exchange! How can Youth Exchange enhance my education? * Major colleges and universities throughout the USA and Canada recognize the value of international studies when making placement decisions. * As our world becomes smaller many jobs and areas of study require students to have more than one language. * The challenge of completing a one year exchange abroad will better prepare you for the transition to living away from home as you pursue your post-secondary education. "I realized that it doesn't matter what language you speak, what colour your skin is, what country you come from, or what religion you follow - we all have so much in common. We are people, we share this planet, we all have people we care about, we all have feelings and we all like to be heard I learned how to be accepting." Heather Bailey, Youth Exchange Student 2005 - 2006, Rotary Club of Brantford-Sunrise Rotary District 7090 Youth Exchange Program. Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to live and learn in a different country. as you seek personal growth and a better understanding of our world. How do I apply for Rotary Youth Exchange? Contact your local Rotary Club to indicate your interest and secure a Rotary Youth Exchange (long term program or short term program) application and information about selection procedures and deadlines. Applications must be made through the Rotary Club office.