4 Reasons You Should Stay with a Host Family

Prior to my abroad program, I felt apprehensive about living with a host family. I knew that living with another family and immersing myself in Spanish would push me outside of my comfort zone. But, I’m independent and can lean introverted, so I was nervous going in. Now one month into my program, I’m so grateful for my host family! They have entirely enhanced my abroad experience. Here are all of the reasons why:

1. Language practice

1. Language Practice

   All of the classes in the Galápagos Semester program through IES Abroad are taught in English. However, our host families are the perfect tool to learn and practice Spanish. I’ve taken Spanish classes throughout high school and college, but my speaking is my weakest form of communication. At my home here in Quito, I only speak Spanish with my host family and it’s excellent. Dinners have been the most helpful time for Spanish practice; I often eat with just my host mom, and one-on-one conversations in a quiet setting are perfect for practice. Telling a descriptive story in another language is so challenging, but I’m getting better!

2. Knowledge about the area 

   Simple enough, but something I hadn’t thought too much about prior to arriving here. It’s comforting to know that I can run any question by my host family and receive their input. I’ve asked for directions, whether it’s safe/feasible to run on certain roads, & more.

3. Insight into the culture

   While our classes are in English, we did take a week of Spanish class at the start of the program. For homework most days, we were told to ask our host families about Ecuadorian jokes, sayings, slang, etc. When I asked at dinner, these conversations were consistently funny and gave me a glimpse into Ecuadorian culture. Moreover, I learned so much about my host mom and brother’s personalities through these cultural points. Early in the semester, it was comforting to share a laugh with them and bond early on.

4. Immersion into a new familial web 

   In general, family is such an important part of Ecuadorian life. It’s more common here than in the U.S. to live with parents during and after university. It’s also more common to live close to your relatives. My host mom has welcomed me into her extended family; I’ve met sisters and nieces and cousins, all of whom are so lovely. Most recently I went to my host brother’s birthday party, which involved a pool and barbecue. That party was the inspiration for this blog-I felt truly connected to their lives here in Ecuador. As for language practice, following along a big group conversation with jokes and many people speaking at once is the ultimate form of immersion in my opinion.

So, if you have the option, stay with a host family! In my experience, it has eased my adjustment to a new culture and helped me feel at home. IES Abroad does a great job at family placement, and the hosts are incredible!