Happy Mother’s Day, iE Host Moms!

Mother’s Day is a day to celebrate all of the incredible mother figures in our lives . . . including the amazing host moms who have opened their hearts and homes to an exchange student.

A host mom’s role goes far beyond simply providing a place for an exchange student to stay. Host parents help students navigate a new culture, celebrate milestones far from home, and create the kind of support system that turns a host family into a second family.

Whether it’s sharing family traditions, cheering students on at school events, helping them adjust to life in the U.S., or simply being there after a long day, host moms make an unforgettable impact on the lives of international exchange students every single day.

This Mother’s Day, we’re celebrating all of the past and present host moms who make cultural exchange and student exchange possible. Thank you for being such an important part of our global family!

Here’s what some of our current iE students have to say about their amazing host moms!

Lara from Germany with Host Mom Karlye

“These last 9 months have been the best time of my life, and that’s because of you. I’ll always cherish all the memories we’ve made. I love and appreciate you more than words can say!”

Irene from Spain with Host Mom Cammie

“Thank you for making me feel like another daughter every day, for making me laugh so much, and for everything you did this year. You are the best host mum I could ever have.

I’m going to miss you so much❤️”

Lucia from Germany with Host Mom Amanda

“My host mom is also a best friend! Thank you for always supporting me, caring for me, and making me feel at home. I am so lucky to have you. Happy Mother’s Day!”

Sophie from Switzerland with Host Mom Julie

“This picture just shows the support and kindness [my host mom] has shown me over the past few months. I could not wish for a better host mom!”

Francesca from Italy with Host Mom Ashley

“Happy Mother’s Day to my special host mom who made my exchange special and who is always there to cheer and support me.”

Linus from Germany on Host Mom Courtney

“Thank you, Courtney, for always making me laugh with your jokes and for making me feel so welcomed.

I remember when we went canoeing, it was the funniest thing ever and most definitely one of my most favorite experiences.

What makes you the best host mom is your kindness and how you sincerely care about me as if I were your own child.

Happy Mother’s Day!”

Beatrice from Italy with Host Mom Elaine

“You’ve made me feel so welcome and at home, and I’m really grateful for your kindness, patience, and support. It means a lot to me to be part of your family, even if just for a while.

I hope you have a beautiful day🤍”

Gara from Spain with Host Mom Allison

“My host mum is amazing. She is always happy making all of us laugh with her weird jokes lol.”

Giulia from Germany with Host Mom Gena

“She’s so caring and supportive, and she somehow always knows how to make me laugh. I’m truly grateful for her and all the moments we share.”

Alina from Germany on Host Mom Danielle

“My host mom is truly the best. She always encourages me to try new things and says yes when I want to explore something different. Because of her, I’ve been able to experience so much more than I ever expected, and she genuinely wants me to make the most out of this year.

She’s not just a host mom; she feels like a best friend in a second family. She’s incredibly funny and always knows how to make me smile with her silly jokes, even on days when I’m not feeling my best.

She’s made this experience unforgettable, not just because of what we do, but because of how she makes me feel welcome, safe, and truly cared for.”