What inspired you to work for Star Exchange?
My master degree was in cross-cultural communication, so from my university life I have been doing the things related to my work. I feel like it is very lucky to do related work after your studies. It is very easy for me to feel happy and grateful during my work. I have so much passion for my work.
Group photo time! This is me with the amazing team over at Star Exchange! Great team.
What is your favorite part of your job?
Exchange programs are my favorite. They allow individuals to immerse themselves in a different culture. Living and studying in a foreign country gives them an opportunity to experience the local way of life, traditions, language, and customs firsthand. It can broaden their perspectives, enhance intercultural understanding, and foster personal growth.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
Make sure you plan and research before you travel. Before embarking on your journey, take the time to thoroughly plan and research your destination. Also, try to understand the local customs more, learn about traditions, and learn basic phrases of the language spoken at your destination. Furthermore, look into the weather conditions, transportation options, and popular attractions.
Additionally, make sure you pack wisely, pack light and pack smart. Consider the climate of your destination and pack suitable clothing. Don't forget essential items like travel adapters, first aid kit, and any necessary medications. Leave some space for souvenirs or items you might purchase during your trip.
Why should someone choose your organization over competitors?
Since 2012, Star Exchange has been providing high-quality exchange programs from our founding country of Germany. We have been opening doors to the world and bringing people together through shared experiences. More than 50,000 young adults from 100+ countries have participated in our educational and cultural programs.
At Star Exchange, we pride ourselves on offering a unique experience that allows participants to feel like a family member rather than just a program participant. By directly experiencing each other’s customs, languages, and values, we believe our programs promote friendship, trust, acceptance, and genuine affection.
What makes Star Exchange easy to market to potential participants?
We give good benefits to the participants, they do not need to spend too much. Also, we foster clear and transparent communication with participants and host families. Star Exchange clearly articulates program guidelines, expectations, and responsibilities. We maintain regular and open lines of communication, providing prompt and helpful responses to inquiries or concerns.
Furthermore, we implement effective communication channels, using emails, phones, online platforms, and/or chat systems, to work efficiently. We offer personalized support and guidance to participants and host families. Also, we assign dedicated staff members who can build relationships with participants and provide individualized assistance throughout their journey.
Additionally, we understand the unique needs and challenges for every participant and provide tailored solutions. We make sure to regularly check in with participants to ensure their well-being and address any issues proactively.
What is your organization's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
Oui, oui! I loved experiencing the historical and amazing Notre Dame in Paris.
Our mission is to provide high-quality exchange programs, while opening doors to the world and bringing people together through shared experiences. We seek to promote cultural exchange and understanding to create a more peaceful and prosperous world.
We make cultural understanding and appreciation a core value. Star Exchange encourages participants to engage in meaningful cultural exchanges by organizing activities, workshops, and events that promote mutual understanding and respect. We provide resources and guidance on cultural norms and customs to help participants navigate cultural differences.
Thorough participant screening and selection we Implement a rigorous screening and selection process for both au pairs and host families. This includes conducting comprehensive interviews, verifying references, and performing background checks to ensure the suitability and safety of all participants.
Also, we take the time to carefully match au pairs with host families based on their preferences, values, and expectations. We consider factors such as compatibility, shared interests, and cultural compatibility to create positive, and harmonious placements.
Finally, we strive to provide clear program guidelines and expectations. We provide comprehensive program handbooks or guides that outline roles, responsibilities, and program rules. We ensure participants understand their obligations and are aware of the resources available to them. Regularly communicate with participants to address any questions or concerns they may have.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
In short, we hope participants take away intercultural competence, language skills, and a global perspective. We want participants to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for different cultures. While learning to navigate and adapt to new cultural contexts, develop empathy, and gain insight into diverse perspectives. This intercultural competence enhances their ability to collaborate and communicate effectively in multicultural settings.
Depending on the program, participants often have the opportunity to improve their language skills. Immersion in a foreign country allows them to practice the language in real-life situations, leading to increased fluency, vocabulary, and confidence in communication. Language proficiency is a valuable asset in today's globalized world.
Cultural exchange programs broaden participants' horizons and expand their worldview. They gain firsthand experience of different social, economic, and political systems. This exposure to global perspectives helps participants become more open-minded, tolerant, and adaptable to different environments and viewpoints.
This is me at work with a fellow colleague in the Star Exchange offices.
What questions do participants often ask you, and how do you typically respond?
Participants ask why Chinese people drink warm water. My response is that drinking warm water is seen as a common good life habit in China. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) emphasizes the concept of balance and harmony in the body.
According to TCM, consuming warm or hot water is believed to promote digestion, improve blood circulation, and support overall bodily functions. It is thought to be beneficial for maintaining internal balance and health.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Traveling abroad allows individuals to immerse themselves in different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. It offers firsthand experiences and interactions with people from diverse backgrounds. This helps break down stereotypes, foster empathy, and promote cultural understanding.
Traveling abroad pushes individuals out of their comfort zones, challenges them to adapt to new environments, navigate unfamiliar situations, and learn to be more independent and self-reliant. It enhances problem-solving skills, resilience, and confidence, which leads to personal growth and development.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
Pack wisely, pack light, and embrace the local culture. While you are abroad make sure to immerse yourself in the local cuisine, try new experiences, and respect local traditions.
Sometimes you just need to get away from it all and enjoy time alone while traveling.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel often involves immersing oneself in the local culture, traditions, and customs of the destination. This can include participating in cultural activities, learning about local history, interacting with locals, and gaining a deeper understanding of the community. Meaningful travel provides opportunities for meaningful interactions, dialogue, and mutual learning.