LIVING WITH A HOST FAMILY
There is no better way to get an authentic cultural experience. Students have the opportunity to be immersed in the culture, customs, and the daily life of Cuenca; it’s an enriching experience for students and families– a true cultural exchange.
The Office of International Programs has a host family coordinator whose works to carefully select the families who will receive students into their homes. The evaluation of potential host families is based on the distance from their house to CEDEI, their motivation(s) for receiving a student, and the willingness and desire of the family to accommodate an international student while sharing their home and personal lives with them.
It is very important that the student fills out the ‘Homestay Questionnaire’ as honestly as possible. Once the Questionnaire has been received, the coordinator will then discuss in detail the student preferences, personalities, and interests with their future Ecuadorian family. Our careful process is to assure a pleasant stay with the hopes of an unforgettable and rewarding experience. Students end up creating bonds and close friendships with their host families.