Youth Exchange Program
What is Rotary Youth Exchange?
Rotary International is an international organization founded in 1905 to serve the local community and to, promote peace and friendship throughout the world. On a global scale it is involved in medical and developmental programs for developing nations as well as instituting services for local groups and needs. The Youth Exchange Program is one such service, providing individuals with a broader view of the world and a deeper understanding of themselves. Rotary is the only organization in the world with a seat at the United Nations.
The Youth Exchange ProgramEach year Rotary Youth Exchange provides thousands of young people with the opportunity to experience the cultures and accomplishments of people in other countries. The ambassadorial nature of the exchange promotes world understanding and peace.
The first exchanges were initiated in Europe in 1929, spreading to the Americas in 1939. In 1972, Youth Exchange became an official program of Rotary International and now more than 8,000 students are sent to 58 countries each year. The Rotary Youth Exchange is a nonprofit program.
How Our Exchange WorksAs a Rotary Youth Exchange student, you will spend a year living in another country, usually with three or four host families. You will become part of those families and their community. These Rotary families are unpaid volunteers who will welcome and core for you, supervise your year and introduce you to their country.
In your host country you may learn another language. You will try different cuisines, study new subjects, enjoy a new culture and discover a new way of living. In addition you will learn a great deal about yourself and gain confidence and self-sufficiency. You will attend school in your local community, as well as participating in Rotary activities and often civic functions. At the same time you will be making new friends, seeing exciting places and experiencing adventures that will take a lifetime to recount.
Selection ProcessThe Rotary Youth Exchange Program is open to any student with good character and academic performance. Rotary seeks mature students in the top 1/3 of their academic class who have become involved in their school and community. Most students choose to participate after graduation although the exchange program is open to any student between the age of 15 and 18½ at the time of exchange (generally mid-August). The exchange program is for one full year.
An application of interest should be made to your local Rotary Club. The club will interview interested students and select two candidates to be presented to the District Committee. This committee's role is to select exchanges, organize and administer the international exchanges. Final selection is dependent on a District interview and a weekend Briefing Seminar. Successful applicants are on their way!
Our Exchange Students, Past & Present