A part-time opportunity for educators

We recently spoke with Ben, a high school teacher in Wyoming who became an exchange coordinator in 2014. Learn about his journey and how he mentors students from Denmark, Italy, Japan and Sweden.

“Teachers, administrators and school staff are perfectly set up to promote cultural exchange in our communities.”

What do you do as an exchange coordinator?

I serve as a support to the students and host families that I work with. Prior to their arrival, I send them a welcome message with links to the school they will attend, information about the classes and school activities they can join and facts about our city and state. During the summer months, I work with my host families to help them prepare for the arrival of their student, and I provide support to both families and students throughout the year.

What kinds of events do you organize as a coordinator?   

Once students have arrived, I host a Welcome Orientation for host families and students. We do ice breakers, have food and I present each student with a souvenir gift bag. Throughout the year, we organize fun monthly EF social gatherings to bring students and families together. For example, one of my families always hosts our Christmas party at their home and students bring a traditional holiday dish of their country.

“I love watching our EF students share their culture and way of life with Wyoming students.”

What do you love most about the IEC role? 

I love watching our EF students share their culture and way of life with students in my community. Wyoming is pretty isolated, and most kids don't have the chance to travel outside of the United States. 

I enjoy watching the growth of our EF students throughout their year as well; whether it's the improvement in their English or them stepping out of their comfort zone to try new things.  Seeing the familial bonds that develop between our students and host families is also very rewarding.

Become a coordinator

Are you ready to change the lives of exchange students and host families, connect with your community in exciting new ways and explore the world with EF?

Register your interest

Speak to our EF team

Start your onboarding process

I'm interested in becoming a coordinator

Let’s connect!

Talk to us directly: +1 800 447 4273

Send an email: [email protected]

© EF Education First 2011-2021. EF High School Exchange Year is operated by EF Educational Foundation for Foreign Study, a non-profit corporation designated by the U.S. Department of State to operate a J-1 student exchange program. Note: Featured photo/videos do not include prospective students, and are representative of program participants.