Welcome to the U.S.! Kicking Off a Great Exchange Year in NYC

One of the things we love most about connecting international exchange students with host families across the U.S.? Every corner of this country has something unique to offer!

From the East Coast to the West Coast, the North and the South, and everything in between, there are so many amazing communities, regional subcultures, cuisines, arts, and more that have earned America the reputation of being a “melting pot.”

Immersion Program participant Kylie is pictured smiling near the beach with her Spanish host family.

That being said – there’s something so iconic about New York City. A bucket list destination for many, NYC is known worldwide as a quintessential symbol of the American dream.

For the first time this year, we offered our incoming students the option to participate in a Summer Welcome Camp in New York City . . . and the results were SO much fun!

Over the course of three days, students got to meet one another (and students from other exchange organizations), prepare to navigate life in the U.S., and of course, see famous NYC landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Empire State Building, and more.

What a perfect way to kick off a great exchange year!

Don’t just take it from us!

Check out these photos and takeaways from 2026 Welcome Camp students:

Emma - Germany

“I met many other exchange students [from different countries] and we shared our experiences and talked about our expectations for the exchange year. This helped me feel less nervous and more prepared. Moreover I learned to be more open-minded and not be afraid to try new things. Sometimes I had to leave my comfort zone, but this helped me become more confident.

I would recommend this orientation to New York to every exchange student, as it gave me unforgettable memories, new friends, and ability to learn a lot from it!”

Marc - Spain

“My favorite part of orientation was Times Square! I learned lots of English and stuff about New York. My orientation set me up for success because they explained all to us.”

Sara - Germany

“[One thing I learned at orientation is] that it’s not right. It’s not wrong. It’s just different!”

Leona - Switzerland

“I learned to be open and that helped me for my start with my hostfamily and school.”

Marlena - Germany

“This was the best decision. I didn’t start alone and had a beautiful beginning. I was scared of the flights but I got enough instructions and lots of help.”

Student exchange is all about learning through experience – for the student AND the host family!

At this point in the year, these students are already beginning their American adventures with the support of welcoming host families by their side. We’ve loved watching them settle in and thrive as they make friends, join sports and activities, and dive in head-first to all the life in the U.S. has to offer.

And there are always more students ready to discover what makes life in the U.S. so special – from big-city landmarks to small-town traditions, family dinners, community events, and everything in between.

We’re always looking for loving host families who are ready to open their homes and share their corner of America with an exchange student . . . if you’re even thinking about it, we’d love to share more about how YOUR family could be part of someone’s American adventure!

Learn more about hosting with iE-USA today!