Every fall, the Poulsbo Rotary interviews a handful of high school students to see which students have what it takes to be a successful participant in our youth exchange programs.
In the past three years, we have sent five students to study for one year abroad in our long-term exchange program: two students to Poland, one to Belgium, one to Colombia and one to Denmark.
In those same three years, we have sent and received a total of 10 students who participated in our short-term exchange program to France, Finland, Italy, The Netherlands and Brazil.
During the long-term exchange program, students are given the opportunity for extensive travel outside their host countries as well.
Poulsbo Rotary is now actively seeking short- and long-term exchange students for the 2015-16 year. This is a short window of opportunity to get involved in a program that is life-changing for the better.
Our year-long students have the opportunity to live in a different culture where they will become fluent in a new language, make friends from literally all over the world, understand what it truly means to become part of a culture different from their own and, ultimately, to share the American experience with their new friends and host families.
Rotary has been doing this for more than 70 years because we want to live in a world where peace is possible; our youth are the key to that ultimate reality.
I have sent my own daughter on long-term exchange and my son on short-term exchange; it was life-changing in a profoundly enriching way for them and for us as a family.
During my tenure as the youth exchange coordinator for our club, I have witnessed the transformation of so many teens who became stronger, more confident, well-spoken and connected with the world around them. They learned how to push themselves and they had fun. In fact, these kids have a saying: “It’s not a year in your life, it’s a life in one year.”
Teens that are at least 15 but not yet 18 on Aug. 15, 2016 are eligible to participate in the long-term exchange program and can be as old as 19 to participate in the short-term exchange program.
Parents and students: Please come to our Rotary Youth Exchange Q&A, 5:30-7 p.m. Sept. 28 at the offices of MD Design Group, 18820 Front St., Suite 210 (above Green Light Diner). You will get a clear understanding of the programs to see if it’s a fit for you.
I plan on serving light snacks and having beverages, so send an e-mail to poulsbo rotaryyouthexchange@gmail.com if you’d like to attend. RSVP not necessary; I’d just like to know who’s coming.
Michele Doyle
Poulsbo
