There are many quality organizations in the U.S. (you can find the entire list of those certified to operate in the U.S. at www.csiet.org). HOWEVER, just because they are a quality organization does NOT mean they are good in YOUR area. An organization is only as good as the local people that represent it and believe me, that can vary greatly!

So, the best way to do this is talk to your high school counselor. He/she is most likely the one that works with the students who come to your school. Go on his/her recommendation on the organization to call.

If he or she will NOT give a recommendation, THEN check the CSIET site. Get a list of organizations that sound interesting and check their websites. At this point you can call them and see if there are local representatives in your area. Do NOT let them talk you into being one! You cannot be the rep AND host! It is against federal law.

Once you have selected a few who have local reps (by law, must be closer than 125 miles), interview them. This is a highly competitive business (yes, business) and THEY want you. YOU are in the driver’s seat, so pick the rep that gives you the most information and that you feel the most comfortable with.

The next step should be filling out an application. If you are guaranteed a student on the spot (unless the rep is your best friend), get suspicious! You should have a background check completed BEFORE you are told you can host!

Sometimes at this point, you might begin looking at student profiles. In most cases there will be a picture, country, general information, student likes and dislikes, activities, religious preferences and a host family letter. (Note: a good rep will NOT want you to host a French speaking student! That is because the student is here to learn English and it would be too easy for you to communicate in his/her native language. They probably won’t forbid it, but should highly discourage it.)

Good luck to you and I hope you find a quality organization and have a great time! I’m on my 13th student and obviously enjoy the experience!