ROTARY EXCHANGE STUDENT

The Lodi Rotary Club has been involved heavily in the Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) for many years. Since 1982, the Lodi Rotary Club has sponsored 36 international students to come to Lodi, Wisconsin and participate in our culture. They usually arrive in August and then start school, and we have a sad day when they leave usually in July. The experience is amazing and it is unbelievable to see the growth in these children.

As Rotary International puts it, Rotary Youth Exchange builds peace one young person at a time. Students learn a new language, discover another culture, and truly become global citizens. Exchanges for students ages 15-19 are sponsored by Rotary clubs in more than 100 countries.

Exchange students unlock their true potential to:

•     Develop lifelong leadership skills
•     Learn a new language and culture
•     Build lasting friendships with young people from around the world
•     Become a global citizen

How long do exchanges last?

Long-term exchanges last a full academic year, and students attend local schools and live with multiple host families.

Short-term exchanges last from several days to three months and are often structured as camps, tours, or homestays that take place when school is not in session.

What are the costs?

Room and board are provided, as well as any school fees. Each program varies, but students are usually responsible for:

•     Round-trip airfare
•     Travel insurance
•     Travel documents (such as passports and visas)
•     Spending money and any additional travel or tours

Additionally, the Lodi Rotary Club has also sent students out to other countries around the world. As always we are looking for students to go out and explore the world as well as for families to learn new cultures by hosting a foreign exchange student in their home for a few months. It is a great way to learn about the world for all involved.

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