Wilmington's International Student Exchange (IES) program currently has over 9 students from countries such as Italy and Spain hosted by local families. Local ISE students recently led service projects at PAWS Humane Society and the Clinton County Homeless Shelter. One of the students, Francesca Francalanci, answered questions about her experience with the program thus far.
Q: What country are you from?
A: Italy
Q: What is your community like in your native country, and how does it compare to Ohio?
A: I live in a really small town called Carmignanello. It's so small that for my elementary and middle school, I had to go in another town, Vaiano, which it's still small. My high school is located in Prato, another town, which it's pretty big and it's where I usually hang out in the weekend with my friends. Here in the United States, I live in a really small town too where you have to travel to get fast food or hang out so it's pretty much the same.
Q: What is something unexpected that occurred when moving here? Or what is the biggest culture shock?
A: My biggest culture shock was definitely the food. Coming from Italy, a country really known for the food, it was pretty shocking seeing the size of the meals! they're huge. The stores are really big too. Everything in America is bigger.
Q: What is one fun fact about you?
A: I'm obsessed with my curly hair and if the curls are not perfect, I'll take multiple showers until they are.
Q: Who is your host family?
A: Steven and Sarah Sodini
If you are interested in opening your home to host an international exchange student please visit the iseusa.org website and check out the host family FAQ page. You can also read testimonials from past and current host families. When you feel ready, complete the host family interest form and an area representative will get in touch with you. You can also get involved by joining our team of Area Representatives! Help match host families and exchange students and bring the world closer together, while making a supplemental income.