October 2nd – Rotary Short Term Youth Exchange
One of the youth exchange experiences that Rotary International offers to teenagers between the ages of 15-19 is a Short Term Exchange (STEP) This is a direct family to family exchange in which a young person from both families are paired according to their interests and gender and each gets to spend 4-5 weeks with each family.
This last summer we sponsored 3 students for the STEP exchange and our partners, the E- Club of Willamette Valley sponsored 2 students. On October 2 we will hear from 4 of the students. Tula Mahoney and Aubrey Mashos went to Italy, Nate Samoylich went to Spain and Nora Mohr went to Finland. They are excited to share their experiences!
Come and support the students YOU sponsored and share in their experiences.
-Program Chair: Linda Bednarz
Meeting Location: Broadway Commons, Russia Room – 3rd floor
Short-Term Rotary Youth Exchange Program
At our first meeting at the Broadway Commons on October 2nd, we’ll learn about the Short-Term Rotary Youth Exchange Program. Most of us are familiar with the Long-Term Rotary Youth Exchange Program that was first established in 1920s.
Typically lasting from a few weeks to a few months, the short-term exchange allows students to engage with another culture while still being mindful of their academic and personal commitments at home.
Typically, occurring over the summer, one of the most immediate benefits of a short-term Rotary exchange is the exposure to a new culture. Students live with host families and participate in community activities, allowing them to experience daily life in a different country. This immersion provides insights into cultural norms, traditions, and social dynamics that can profoundly influence a student’s worldview.
By stepping into a different culture for a short period, students often find their assumptions challenged and their perspectives broadened. They gain an appreciation for diversity and learn to navigate cultural differences, fostering empathy and open-mindedness that serve them well in their future interactions.
Many students also discover newfound confidence during their exchange. Whether it’s making new friends, participating in local customs, or overcoming language barriers, these experiences contribute to a stronger sense of self. The challenges faced and overcome during the exchange can lead to enhanced self-esteem and independence. The friendships forged during a short-term exchange can create a sense of belonging and a network of support that lasts well into adulthood.
The short-term exchange experience serves as a reminder that even brief encounters can lead to lasting change, both for the individual and the world around them.
President Cathy Grimes
Rotary Club of Salem
2024-2025
