DO: Keep an open mind!
This isn’t the bedroom, house, or even country that you’re used to. It’s important to keep an open mind about moving in with a host family. Your bedroom may be smaller, you may not have nearly as much closet space, and you will definitely feel out of your comfort zone. It’s very likely that the arrangements will not be what you are used to – and that’s okay! It’s important to branch out and experience new things, so embrace the changes!
DO: Be open to trying new foods
Depending on where you’re going, the food may be very different from what you are used to. It may be that the types of food are different, or simply that they are prepared in a different way. For example, if you’re not somebody who particularly likes fish, don’t refuse to eat it if your host mom has prepared it for you. Give it a try, you may realize you don’t hate it after all!
DO: Be polite and appreciative
Realize that although you are only living there for a semester or less, this is your host family’s home. Treat it as you would your own. Offer to help cook, clean, and do laundry. Even if your host mother declines your offer, she will appreciate it. Don’t forget to say thank you after you are prepared a meal. Remember that this isn’t a hotel – your host family is not here to serve you. Some simple manners can go a long way!
DO: Research local customs
Before you go, research the country you are going to a little bit. Do they have any customs or practices that are different from what you are used to? For example, in Spain, people are never barefoot – even in their own homes! Keep this in mind when deciding whether or not to bring those slippers. Another local custom in Spain is that dinner is not usually served until at least 9. Remember this when planning when to eat lunch.
DO: Ask their opinions on things to do while you are abroad (museums, restaurants, etc.)
Keep in mind that the family you are living with is a permanent resident of the city you are visiting. Get their opinion on what to do before you go. Are there any beautiful cathedrals or nearby cities that are worth a visit? They probably know more than a guidebook, so ask their opinion!
DON’T: Worry about embarrassing yourself by trying to speak the language
If you are studying in a country whose main language is something other than English, you may feel nervous about understanding what your host family is saying to you as well as that you are embarrassing yourself by trying to speak the language. However, your host family wants to help you improve on your language skills. It’s okay to mess up or to conjugate a verb wrong. In order to improve, you’ll have to practice, and what better way than to practice with a family who is fluent? Besides, your host family has probably hosted students with far less knowledge of the foreign language than you, so just try your best!
DON’T: Be a slob
Clean up after yourself, especially in your bedroom. Whether or not you have a roommate while abroad, be sure to keep your space tidy. Remember that your host family is opening up their house for you, so treat it as you would your own (or better!)
DON’T: Be disrespectful (going out, loud music, etc.)
This is one of the main complaints that host families have of study abroad students. If you are coming for the United States, it is very likely that the drinking age will be lower in the country you are visiting. It is fine to take advantage of that, however, not at the expense of your host family. Discuss things like going out when you first get there so that you are both on the same page. Chances are your host family won’t care how late you stay out, as long as you stay safe and are quiet when you come home. The same goes for loud music. It’s likely, especially in Europe, your home stay will actually be in an apartment. This means that in addition to respecting your host family, you probably share a wall with the neighbors. Keep your music low, or grab some headphones, especially if it is late at night.
DON’T: Worry if you feel out of your comfort zone
You will definitely feel out of your comfort zone upon arrival in a foreign country, but that’s good! You aren’t studying abroad to have the same experience you would at school. Take advantage of your feelings of uneasiness and explore the city or town you are living in. Once you know your way around, you will likely feel more comfortable. Also, keep in mind that many of the other students studying abroad probably feel similar. Be sure to reach out and make friends from other schools, even if you came with a program with your home university.
DON’T: Forget to thank them and show your appreciation
Throughout your stay, and definitely before you leave, be sure to express your gratitude for your host family. Keep in mind that to them, you are another mouth to feed. Express your appreciation frequently. Towards the end of your stay, offer to cook dinner for them, or take them out to eat. They’ll appreciate it!