Benefits for High Schools

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As careers become increasingly international, the need for a global education within American classrooms grows. EF Foundation students provide a more direct connection to the global discussion than textbooks, maps or computers. With EF Foundation for Foreign Study, your school becomes a global skills zone designed to help your students achieve success in the following areas:

• Competence. Congress has identified fostering “cultural competence” among the next generation as essential to America’s continued success on the world stage. Bringing international education into your classroom helps your students more easily achieve this goal.
• Communication. Regardless of language skills, students can learn the basics of cross-cultural communication simply by being exposed to individuals from other countries. True communication is more than just speech—it also includes understanding the customs, values, outlook and even humor of others.
• Connections. Perhaps nothing inspires students’ curiosity to explore beyond their borders more than meeting peers from faraway places. Inviting international exchange students into your classroom can provide the spark that lights the fire of learning. In addition, exchange students often go on to become leaders in business, politics and the arts. Friendships forged in high school can lead to important worldwide connections later on in life.

Give Your Students the International Advantage

Exchange students bring international education to your school, and international education makes your students smarter citizens of the world. Your students will be more likely to be curious about the world and geography, develop a deeper knowledge of international, political and economic issues, gain a sharper perspective on world affairs, and broaden their understanding of a different country and its way of life. Also, overcoming the difficulties of language and cultural differences at a younger age prepares students for study abroad in college and international workplaces.

Bring International Flair to Your School

Exchange students can help turn your hallways into foreign lands when you host international festivals and other fun events at your school. Learning about the world no longer feels like a chore when there are tables in the gym decorated with pictures and flags, salsa music is piped throughout the classrooms, and the smell of international foods tempt students at lunch. It’s the perfect opportunity for students to find out more about their visiting counterparts—and how international education benefits them!

Reward Globally-Minded Students with our Student Ambassador Program

Students in your school can apply to become members of EF Foundation’s new volunteer force, EF Exchange Corps. As Student Ambassadors, these students act as mentors, guides and friends for the exchange students in their school. Volunteering for an international organization is great preparation for college and helps facilitate the easy transition of exchange students into your student body. Through our annual essay contest, Student Ambassadors can also win money towards a college scholarship or study abroad experience!