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What Is Student Exchange?
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 A student exchange program is a program in which a student, typically in secondary or higher education, chooses to live in a foreign country to learn, among other things, language and culture. These programs are called 'exchanges' because originally the goal was an exchange of students between different countries. No trade off is actually required, so a student is allowed to go to another country without finding a counterpart in that country to exchange with. Students live with a host family, who are usually unpaid volunteers and can be a traditional family, a single parent, or a couple with no children at home. Host families are vetted by an organization such as Taj Global Understanding, which is co-coordinating the program.
Student exchanges became popular after World War II, and have the aim of helping to increase the participants' understanding and tolerance of other cultures, as well as improving their language skills and broadening their social horizons.
Exchange programs are usually on a limited basis, as opposed to study abroad programs which may last for several years. Taj Global Understanding offers a diverse range of exchange programming for primary & secondary school students, college & university students, as well as experienced professionals. Taj Global Understanding Short Term Exchanges are 2-3 weeks in duration and aimed at younger students from the age of 9 thru 16. Academic year and semester exchanges have an age criteria of 15-18, as a greater maturity is required for participation in a long term program. And for college students between the ages 18-28, TGU has both Internships and Work & Travel Program opportunities. For working professionals, from the age 21 and up, Taj Global Understanding has 12 and 18 month Trainee Programs available in the United States.
The success of exchange programs requires solid logistics and support: to help sponsors set student selection criteria and make the most of their resources; to advise students on their best educational choices; to handle applications, financial, and travel arrangements; to monitor students’ progress; and to help students actively engage in novel academic and social environments.
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What Are The Individual Benefits? |
 The benefits of doing a student exchange may include, but are not limited to, the following: Gaining independence, gaining a sense of responsibility and purpose, first hand knowledge of another culture, exploring differences between countries, understanding traditions and taboos, learning more about ones self, friends and family, a better understanding of homeland, building connections between countries, learning a foreign language, discovering abilities and limitations.
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How Are Exchanges Important Globally? |
In the short term, these programs contribute to individual success and provide a forum for positive cross-cultural interaction. In the long term, they hold the potential to improve economic development, cross-cultural understanding, and even impact foreign policy. Exchange Programs serve a vital importance in the world today and Taj Global Understanding endorses the need to expand these programs into other parts of society, creating more dialogue, more openness, and more understanding in the world. |
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History Of J-1 Exchange Visitor Program |
| In 1949, The United States of America introduced the J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa program under the Fulbright – Hayes Act in Congress. To date, students from over 140 countries have been involved in exchange programs. Students who have studied abroad have gained a sense of personal empowerment, greater global awareness, and enhanced cultural understanding through their international education. Former Secretary of State Colin Powell says, “let us work together to create partnerships for peace and prosperity and democracy.” Through international education, this is possible. |
| “There is increasing emphasis and intensity in the Senate to focus on exchange programs as one of the only pieces of currency in this complicated world that has long-term pay-off. I predict exchange is going to be the fastest area of growth in public diplomacy, and that these programs will grow in interest and importance, rather than diminish.” |
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Senator Joe Biden
(D) Delaware, United States |
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Diplomats On Exchange |
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| “The Department of State recognizes the role that international education and exchange play in strengthening our nation and our relations with other countries…I can think of no more valuable asset to our country than the friendship of future world leaders who have been educated here. At the same time it is important for American students to learn other languages, experience foreign cultures, and develop a broad understanding of global issues. International education prepares our citizens to live, work, and compete in the global economy, and promotes tolerance and the reduction of conflict…” |
Colin Powell,
Former US Secretary of State |
| “Every student should have the opportunity to travel and come into contact with a foreign country. A study abroad experience gives a student the chance to truly live in a different culture and learn about it firsthand, while sharing information about his or her own culture. ….I hope that through intercultural exchanges, future generations will gain an appreciation and understanding of foreign cultures.” |
Madeline Albright
Form US Secretary of State |
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| “International students receive an unparalleled education, while also exposing American students to world cultures. The relationships that are built and the understanding of other cultures that is gained is a gift and should be encouraged.” |
Peter Hoekstra (R-MI)
US Congressman from Michigan |
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