After living with my host family for 9 months I've learned the importance of acceptance, adaptability, communitcation, honesty, respect and trust. These are key factors that help establishing a good relation between the international students and the host family (and people in general, I believe).
During the exchange, most students and families run into some "issues". Regardless of the "conflicts" being major or minor, these are situations where the skills listed in the first paragraph play a big role. I have been extremely lucky with my host family. We have had a great year, with no big scenes. Yes, there will be times where you don't fully agree, feel uncomfortable and think "it would be better back home". There will also be different habits, "rules" and point of views you will learn to accept, adapt to and respect. The beauty of this is that your family will do the same in return.
Keep in mind that most host families want what's best for both sides. Their intentions are usually to protect themselves and you. To me communication is the alpha and omega (very important). If something is not clear, ask. Be honest and open. Talk with your host family. Inform them about your concerns. By letting them in you earn their trust, and they get the chance to earn yours. Whenever I've been unsure about anything I've talked with both my host parents and the same way around. They have listened, explained, been willing to discuss and showed understanding. I think this is one of the main reasons why my year has been so successful. I hope future exchange students will experience this type of relationship with their host families as well. It makes the challenges decrease and the sense of comfort and safety increase.
I cannot talk for everyone, because I'm just one in a million. Neither do I have the right answers. Every scenario have different outcomes. Life is unpredicatable.
However, it's a good attitude to start your year abroad with.
Keep in mind that most host families want what's best for both sides. Their intentions are usually to protect themselves and you. To me communication is the alpha and omega (very important). If something is not clear, ask. Be honest and open. Talk with your host family. Inform them about your concerns. By letting them in you earn their trust, and they get the chance to earn yours. Whenever I've been unsure about anything I've talked with both my host parents and the same way around. They have listened, explained, been willing to discuss and showed understanding. I think this is one of the main reasons why my year has been so successful. I hope future exchange students will experience this type of relationship with their host families as well. It makes the challenges decrease and the sense of comfort and safety increase.
I cannot talk for everyone, because I'm just one in a million. Neither do I have the right answers. Every scenario have different outcomes. Life is unpredicatable.
However, it's a good attitude to start your year abroad with.