2012/13 Milton Rotary International Youth Exchange

The Exchange
- lasts one year
- past host countries include: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, New Zealand, South Africa and more
- student does not pick his or her host country for logistical reason (multiple applicants all choosing the same country, those not open to learning a new language selecting a host country that is not English speaking = a potential bad fit, etc.)
- student attends school in the host country
- host families are typically Rotarians or past exchange student families (all hosts are screened thoroughly by the local club, including home visits and police checks)
- Must stay for 11 months and must come home directly
- Cannot go to a host country where you have existing family or relatives living

Benefits
- experience of a lifetime
- acquiring 1, 2 or more foreign languages
- great line for resume
- bolsters college/university applications
- gain world experience
- explore career opportunities with host families

Applicant Requirements
- Must be currently attending a high school in the Town of Milton
- Must be between the age of 15.5 and not yet 18 at the time of departure (Sept. 1, 2013)

Application Specifics - Stage 1
- Submit an initial application to our Milton committee, along with a letter of recommendation from the student's school
- Local interviews begin in late November 2012
- Interview format is small committee interviews student by himself/herself; then interviews parents separately; then interviews student and parents together

Stage 2
- 1 applicant is chosen who is then forwarded for further approval by our district, which arranges the exchanges with districts abroad
- a long form application is then required
- Deadline here is in December 2012

Stage 3
- parents and student must commit to attend any send off preparation events (mandatory)

Considerations
- Discuss with school's guidance department the ability to acquire credits abroad. Typically, a foreign language credit can be earned, among other credits
- this should be the student's dream and desire to participate in the exchange, not the parents' dream

Costs
- no cost for schooling
- no cost for accommodation abroad
- cost is flight (must be an open-ended ticket, allowing the student to return home at any time due to emergencies and/or for disciplanary expulsions, both have happened before)
- Must buy health insurance (typically $500)
- student typically receives a $125 / month allowance
- Necessary customs / visas must be arranged by parents prior to departure


You can get an initial application form online. Here's the link:
http://www.clubrunner.ca/Portal/SitePages/SitePage.aspx?accountid=50042&pid=492

We have been running this exchange program for many, many years and we would be happy to connect you with past students if you'd like to gauge their thoughts and tap into their insights.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Call 289-878-5437 or email rodmclachlan (at) hotmail . com to apply.