Frequently Asked Questions
FAMILIES
1. Will I be the only student in the family?
No. You will share the family with another student from your group, of your choosing. Other students from the goup may be placed in the family as well.
2. Will the family speak English?
No. In fact, the families are chosen because they do not speak English (so the student must use the target language to communicate).
3. Will I have my own key?
Yes. Students are free to come and go provided they return by curfew time.
6. What about E-mail?
Internet cafes are numerous and very inexpensive to use.
7. Can I change my family?
Yes, If things don't work out. If for any reason you do not feel comfortable with your assigned family, arrangements are made to provide you with another family immediately.
8. Should I help the family around the house?
It is polite to offer to set and clear the table. It is also common courtesy to keep your room and common areas tidy.
9. Can I choose my family?
No, but you can make certain requests, such as: non-smoking, no pets, vegetarian diet, etc.
10. How are families chosen by the program?
Families are evaluated and chosen for their abilities to make students feel welcome and for their friendliness. Each family is given a rating at the end of a stay, and any family not meeting the standard established will no longer be used by the program.
11. Will I have to do my own laundry?
No. The cost of doing laundry is included.
CLASSES
1. What class will I be placed in?
A placement test will be administered on the first day, in order to determine each student's class level. You will then be placed in a class with other students of equal ability.
2. Will I have homework?
Yes, but because it is summer school it will not be extensive.
3. Will there be tests?
Tests are generally not part of the class. At the end of the class you may choose to take a test in order to receive a diploma. All students will be awarded a certificate of attendance.
4. How large are the classes?
Class size is limited to 12 students.
5. Will the teacher speak English?
No. All the classes are conducted in the target language by native speakers.
6. How far is the school from families?
The school is usually within walking distance. It typically never takes more than 10 to 20 minutes to walk there, and the family will escort you to school on the first day.
7. Should I bring a present to the family?
It is not required, but it is a nice ice breaker to bring a token gift of American culture.
EXCURSIONS
1. How many excursions will there be?
It varies from year to year, but usually between 4 to 7. Some trips are a half day long, while other weekend trips are a full day.
2. Do I have to pay for them?
No, the price of trips is included.
3. Do I have to participate in all the excursions?
Yes, unless for health reasons you are too sick to do so. The program would not be complete without the enjoyment and learning that comes from such excursions.
CITY and OTHER TOPICS
1. Is the city safe?
Extremely, but students are asked to always travel in pairs. This is why we assign two students per family, as it is safer to return home at night.
2. What about public transportation?
A very efficient bus system carries people across the city.
3. How will I know how to get around?
Both Salamanca and Nice are easy to navigate, and a map of the city will be provided to students.
4. What about medical services, in case I get sick?
The school has a local doctor on call and is available whenever medical attention is needed.
5. Will phone service be available?
Yes, families will let students use the phone to make local calls only. For other calls it is recommended that students purchase a phone card upon arrival. Parents can also call at a predetermined time.
6. How much money should I bring and what is the best way?
$100 - $150 per week is suggested. Travelers checks are very safe, and ATM cards are also very convenient.
7. Will I like the food?
Most likely. Families are chosen for their quality of food served. In many cases students will be asked for their food preferences. If something served is not to a student's liking they may politely decline to eat it.
Getting Started
FAQ
