Every Exchange Has a Story
Every Rotary Youth Exchange student returns home with a story worth telling. Explore real experiences, unforgettable adventures, lifelong friendships, and the moments that change lives.
Dominique
Allen, Texas, USA → Switzerland
Long-Term Exchange • 2022-2023
Discovering a Second Home in Switzerland
I chose Rotary Youth Exchange because I wanted to see the world, experience a new culture, and challenge myself outside of my comfort zone. It was the perfect opportunity to become more independent while building friendships with people from around the world.
One of the most unforgettable moments of my exchange was skiing in the Swiss Alps with my host sister. Sharing that experience together while surrounded by breathtaking mountains created memories I’ll treasure for the rest of my life. Every season brought something new—from hiking in the Alps to traveling across Europe and experiencing traditions I had only read about before.
"Say yes to every opportunity. The more open-minded and involved you are, the more rewarding -and life-changing- your exchange will become." -Dominique
Cris
Wylie, Texas, USA → Denmark
Long-Term Exchange • 2025–2026
Stepping Beyond My Comfort Zone
I wanted a year that would challenge me, teach me a new language, and give me a broader perspective on the world beyond the United States.
One of the most meaningful moments of my exchange came during the Rotary Farewell Camp in Sønderjylland, where exchange students from across District 1461 gathered one final time. Receiving the Most Outstanding Exchange Student award was an incredible honor, but what made the moment truly unforgettable was standing beside friends from around the world, realizing everything we had experienced and accomplished together during our year in Denmark.
"Learn the language as quickly as you can, even when it feels uncomfortable. Say yes to almost everything—especially the things that seem unfamiliar—because those moments often become your greatest memories."
- Cristofher
Cris
Wylie, Texas, USA → Denmark
Long-Term Exchange • 2025–2026
Stepping Beyond My Comfort Zone
I wanted a year that would challenge me, teach me a new language, and give me a broader perspective on the world beyond the United States.
One of the most meaningful moments of my exchange came during the Rotary Farewell Camp in Sønderjylland, where exchange students from across District 1461 gathered one final time. Receiving the Most Outstanding Exchange Student award was an incredible honor, but what made the moment truly unforgettable was standing beside friends from around the world, realizing everything we had experienced and accomplished together during our year in Denmark.
"Learn the language as quickly as you can, even when it feels uncomfortable. Say yes to almost everything—especially the things that seem unfamiliar—because those moments often become your greatest memories."
- Cristofher
Avery
McKinney, Texas, USA → Italy
Short-Term Exchange • 2026
Inspired by Hosting, Changed by Italy
A few years before my exchange, my family hosted a Rotary Youth Exchange student from France. Welcoming her into our home was such an incredible experience that it inspired me to have my own exchange adventure. I wanted the opportunity to experience another culture the same way she experienced ours, and this summer I had the opportunity to do just that.
One of the highlights of my exchange was traveling throughout Italy with my host family. I met wonderful people, explored beautiful cities and historic sites, and experienced places I had only dreamed of visiting. Every day brought something new, and I truly couldn’t have asked for a better experience.
"Believe in yourself and trust that you can adapt to a new country. It's normal to wonder if you're ready, but every day gets a little easier. I wasn't sure I was brave enough to go on exchange, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions I've ever made." -Avery
SILAS
Zofingen, Switzerland → Dallas, Tx, USA
Long-Term Exchange • 2025–2026
Becoming Part of an American High School
Rotary Youth Exchange has always been part of my family’s story. We hosted exchange students at home, and after watching my brother complete his own exchange, I knew I wanted to experience it myself.
One of the highlights of my exchange has been experiencing American high school life firsthand. Playing sports, attending football games, traveling with other exchange students, and becoming part of my local community helped me quickly feel at home. Every new experience introduced me to lifelong friendships and unforgettable memories.
"Get involved in as many school activities as possible. That's where you'll make friends and experience the real American high school."
-Silas
olivia
Aix-en-Provence, France → Dallas, Tx, USA
Long-Term Exchange • 2022-2023
Living the
American Experience
I discovered Rotary Youth Exchange through another exchange student who encouraged me to apply. Rotary offered something unique—the chance to truly become part of an American family instead of simply visiting as a tourist.
Living in Texas completely changed my perspective. American high school was full of school spirit, football games, sports, pep rallies, and prom—experiences that were completely different from life back home in France. Thanks to my wonderful host families, I also traveled to New York City, San Francisco, New Mexico, Houston, NASA, and many other incredible places across the United States.
"Be open-minded, don't have expectations, and say yes to every opportunity. It can truly become the best experience of your life."
-Olivia
olivia
Aix-en-Provence, France → Dallas, Tx, USA
Long-Term Exchange • 2022-2023
Living the
American Experience
I discovered Rotary Youth Exchange through another exchange student who encouraged me to apply. Rotary offered something unique—the chance to truly become part of an American family instead of simply visiting as a tourist.
Living in Texas completely changed my perspective. American high school was full of school spirit, football games, sports, pep rallies, and prom—experiences that were completely different from life back home in France. Thanks to my wonderful host families, I also traveled to New York City, San Francisco, New Mexico, Houston, NASA, and many other incredible places across the United States.
"Be open-minded, don't have expectations, and say yes to every opportunity. It can truly become the best experience of your life."
-Olivia
Your Story Could Be Next
Whether you dream of living abroad or welcoming a student into your family,
Rotary Youth Exchange is the beginning of a life-changing journey.