Though it certainly doesn’t seem like spring in Southern Minnesota—where we’re recently under a blizzard warning—North Star is moving full steam ahead with preparations for the upcoming exchange year. We’ve been quite busy lately, and we’re excited to share some updates with you!

Outbound Orientation Update

On March 1st, North Star held its second Outbound Orientation, which included an overnight stay at White Bear Lake High School with our current inbound students. It was a busy but productive day, with many moving parts, including the Short Term Program Orientation, Host Family Training, and Youth Exchange Officer/Club Counselor Training.

After the day’s sessions, the Outbounds and Inbounds enjoyed a pizza dinner followed by some fun, organized activities. Special thanks to Ed Marek and Braver Angels for their insightful presentation on how to navigate difficult conversations. Our Rotex group led a button-making activity, which was followed by one of the most energetic Karaoke sessions we’ve ever seen! Later in the evening, the students had the chance to blow off some steam in the gym. A big thank you to all the Rotex and volunteers who helped make the
day a success, and to Tim Wald and the White Bear Lake School District for hosting us!

Future Inbounds Update

Student applications are arriving from our exchange partners for the 2025-26 exchange year. While these are coming in a bit slower than usual, we hope to make club assignments by the end of March. If your club would like to host an inbound student this fall and has not yet expressed interest, please
reach out to Sara Johnston at office@northstarrotary.com. We continue to
receive applications from students around the globe eager to join our program. Remember, a club doesn’t need to send a student abroad in order to host an inbound student!

Current Inbounds Enjoying North Star Activities

With school events like proms and sports games, our current inbound students have a busy spring ahead. In addition to school activities, North Star has several exciting events planned for them. A number of students are currently soaking up the sun in Hawaii on a tour organized by Belo USA Travel.

Looking ahead, our students will have the opportunity to attend a Minnesota Twins game in April and visit the National Eagle Center in Wabasha in May. They will also be featured at the District 5960 Peace Conference on May 3rd in Prior Lake. Be sure to visit the North Star website for more details on these upcoming events!

NAYEN Conference Recap

Before we wrap up, I would like to reflect on our incredible experience at the NAYEN Conference in February. North Star volunteers played an active role by leading several educational sessions, sharing valuable insights and best practices in youth exchange. We were proud to be one of only three programs
to receive the prestigious NAYEN Gold Achievement Award. Additionally, we were honored to be the exclusive recipient of the Dr. Abe Kuttothara Innovation Award, which recognizes innovative practices in youth exchange.

The Innovation award is especially significant as it highlights the implementation of our Host Family Support Team, which provides essential
assistance to our host families. Hats off to the member of the Host Family Support Team for their outstanding work. These recognitions reflect the unwavering dedication of all North Star volunteers, and we couldn’t be prouder of the exceptional impact they continue to make on the global stage.

Thank you for your continued support of Rotary Youth Exchange!

Eric Johnsrud

North Star Chair

The post Newsletter for March 2025 appeared first on North Star Rotary Youth Exchange.

Our inbound students have been equally busy. They participated in the interview day by hosting a lively Country Fair, where they shared insights about their home countries with interviewees and their families. After the event, they wrapped up the day with a fun outing at a bowling alley. The following weekend, several of our inbound students enjoyed a trip to Alexandria, MN, where they had the chance to ski at Andes Tower Hills. Thank you to the Winter Ski Weekend Event sponsoring clubs: Alexandria Rotary Club and Minnewaska Rotary Club; and the many volunteers that made this event a success.

Looking ahead to the new year, our attention will turn to the outbound orientation process, which begins in January. The Orientation Committee is working hard to create engaging activities and informative sessions that will help prepare our outbound candidates for the exciting challenges and experiences that await them during their exchange year.

As we prepare for the arrival of new students next fall, many Rotary clubs are already actively seeking host families. Hosting an exchange student provides a unique opportunity to immerse your family in a different culture while building lasting connections. As a former host parent, I can personally attest to the enriching experience it offers. In this season of gratitude, we are reminded of the importance of family. If you’re interested in hosting, please reach out to your local Rotary club for more information.

Every year, I am continually amazed by the dedication of our North Star volunteers—whether they are helping with our various events or supporting our clubs in recruiting and hosting students. A heartfelt thank you to all of our volunteers for your tireless work throughout 2024!

Lastly, I’m honored to share that I was recently elected President-Elect of the North American Youth Exchange Network, effective July 2025. This organization supports Rotary Youth Exchange programs across North America, and my term as President will begin in July 2027. I look forward to the opportunities and challenges this role will bring, and I will continue involvement in North Star’s mission to promote world peace.

On behalf of North Star Youth Exchange, I extend our warmest wishes for a joyful holiday season. May this time be filled with love, laughter, and meaningful connections.

Happy Holidays!

Eric Johnsrud

North Star Rotary Youth Exchange Chair

The post Newsletter for December 2024 appeared first on North Star Rotary Youth Exchange.

This month, we’re excited to spotlight the North Star Youth Exchange Short-Term Exchange Program, as we prepare to send twenty high school and college-age students abroad this coming summer. Participants can choose between two incredible opportunities: the Family-to-Family exchange or participation in an International Camp/Tour.

The Family-to-Family exchange pairs youth ages 14-18 with an overseas partner of similar age and interests. The exchange involves a month-long stay in each other’s homes: one month in the partner’s country and one month in the U.S. Meanwhile, International Camps/Tours cater to a broader age range (15-25) and offer a variety of themes, from adventurous activities like sailing and mountain climbing, to cultural and artistic tours.

The costs for the summer program include a nominal administrative fee to North Star: $500 for Family-to-Family exchange and $250 for the International Camps/Tours. Participants are responsible for their transportation, destination camp fee, and travel insurance.

Applications for the 2025 Short-Term Exchange Program are being accepted until March 1, 2025. For more information and to apply, visit northstarrotary.com

A Special Message to Rotary Clubs in Districts 5950 and 5960

We are excited to announce the second annual North Star Rotary Youth Exchange International Camp running from July 10-24, 2025. This camp will bring together youth, ages 15-17, from around the world to experience the fun, culture, and history of the Upper Midwest. In addition to exploring our region, campers will forge lasting friendships with each other.

Throughout the two-week camp, participants will be hosted by Rotary Clubs across the North Star districts. North Star volunteers will lead daily activities, creating a vibrant, immersive experience. If your club is interested in learning more about the camp, please contact Elaine Baumann at elaine.baumann1@gmail.com.

Inbound Students Update: Exploring the Midwest

Our inbound students are continuing to immerse themselves in Midwestern culture and lifestyle. While the cold temperatures and lack of snow have limited some of their traditional winter activities, they are still finding plenty of ways to connect with the local community and explore all the region has to offer.

Outbound Orientations for the 2025-26 Exchange Year

On January 25th, North Star held the first of three outbound orientations for the 2025-26 exchange year. These comprehensive sessions are designed to equip our outbound candidates with the tools and knowledge they need for a successful exchange. Topics covered include navigating school life abroad, staying healthy, cross-cultural awareness, and country-specific breakouts. Parents also play a crucial role in supporting their children’s journey, and they receive guidance throughout the process. In addition to these orientations, students participate in a language learning program and complete assignments that prepare them to be true youth exchange ambassadors.

Hosting Exchange Students

As we prepare our outbound candidates, we are also planning for the arrival of students this coming fall. Many Rotary clubs are actively seeking host families. Hosting an exchange student is a unique opportunity to share cultures and foster lifelong connections. Having personally been a host parent, I can vouch for the enriching experience it offers. We invite you to consider opening your home to an exchange student. For more information, please contact your local Rotary club or email us at office@northstarrotary.com.

Thank you for your continued support of Rotary Youth Exchange!

Eric Johnsrud

North Star Chair

The post Newsletter for February 2025 appeared first on North Star Rotary Youth Exchange.

Long-Term Exchange Applications Due Soon!

Here’s what a few of our past exchange students have said about their experiences:

“My exchange year laid the foundation for the rest of my adult life.  It taught me to be confident, outgoing, to embrace the challenges and the wins of everyday life, and it inspired me to see the world as a place that connects people through our similarities rather than our differences.” 

-Carly, past outbound exchange student to Brazil

“My exchange year changed the trajectory of my life… I met a lot of terrific people who quite literally showed me the world.  I’m forever grateful for my exchange and I can’t imagine my life any differently.”

-Piper, past outbound exchange student to Germany

Webinar – November 3rd

By popular demand, we will host another webinar on Sunday, November 3rd at 7 pm.  This session will provide more information about our exchange program, and you and your family will have the chance to ask questions.  To attend, please CLICK HERE and fill our the form to receive the Zoom link.  We look forward to seeing you on November 3rd!

Fall Festival

On October 12th, North Star provided a day of fun activities for our current inbound exchange students.  There was pumpkin carving, a picnic lunch and an afternoon at Valleyfair.  There was also a Halloween theme, as many wore costumes.  This event is just one of the many social opportunities we provide for our international friends.  It is wonderful to see how they connect with each other when they are together!

Become A North Star Volunteer

At North Star, we are always seeking individuals who feel called to help students develop into global citizens.  If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact our office at RotaryNorthStarOffice@gmail.com or call us at (763)200-4036.  You can also find the volunteer application by visiting the Volunteer Page on our website.

Thank you for your interest in Rotary Youth Exchange!

Eric Johnsrud

North Star Chair

The post Newsletter for October 2024 appeared first on North Star Rotary Youth Exchange.

Bridging Cultural Divides:

From the Midwest to the world, the Youth Exchange program enables students to become cultural ambassadors. Embracing countries afar, participants are exposed to customs, languages, and traditions different from their own. This exposure fosters cross-cultural understanding, enriches perspectives, and nurtures a sense of unity that spans continents.

Language Mastery:

The journey into the unknown isn’t just about geography – it’s about language too. Engaging with locals and fellow exchange students, participants refine their language skills in real-world contexts. This linguistic growth serves as a gateway to effective communication, bolstering self-confidence and preparing students for the globalized job market.

Personal Growth Through Exploration:

Leaving familiar surroundings is the catalyst for personal development. Youth Exchange students courageously navigate foreign environments, honing adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving skills. These qualities equip them to face life’s challenges with newfound confidence and resourcefulness.

Forge Lifelong Connections:

From Minnesota and Wisconsin to destinations worldwide, the Youth Exchange experience creates bonds that transcend time zones. The friendships formed during the program evolve into an international network of peers, offering support, collaboration, and an ongoing exchange of ideas.

Cultivating Leadership Skills:

The Youth Exchange journey propels students into leadership roles. From decision-making in unfamiliar situations to embracing responsibilities, participants emerge as self-reliant individuals with enhanced leadership aptitudes. These skills prove invaluable in academic pursuits and future career endeavors.

Expanding Horizons:

A journey through the Youth Exchange program nurtures open-mindedness and a broader worldview. Students become global citizens, appreciating the interconnectedness of societies and embracing the diversity that enriches our world.

Conclusion:

The Midwest’s Youth Exchange adventures, spanning from Minnesota to Wisconsin, are the gateway to a world of personal growth, cultural enlightenment, and enduring connections. Through this unique program, students from the heartland evolve into empowered global citizens, ready to shape a brighter future. As you embark on this transformative journey, remember that from the heartland, you can touch every corner of the globe.

Eager to embark on a journey that redefines boundaries? Join our Youth Exchange program and let the world be your classroom. From the heartland of Minnesota and Wisconsin to destinations worldwide, discover the path to becoming a global citizen and shape your future with limitless possibilities.

The post Nurturing Global Citizens: Youth Exchange Adventures from Minnesota and Wisconsin appeared first on North Star Rotary Youth Exchange.

Cultural Immersion:

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Youth Exchange experience is the chance to be fully immersed in a foreign culture. From tasting exotic cuisines to participating in local traditions, students gain a deep appreciation for the diversity that enriches our world. This firsthand encounter with different ways of life fosters cultural sensitivity and empathy, essential qualities in our increasingly globalized society.

Language Proficiency:

While navigating a new environment, language becomes a bridge to meaningful interactions. Youth Exchange participants often find themselves improving their language skills rapidly as they engage with locals and fellow students. This linguistic growth not only opens doors for effective communication but also enhances cognitive abilities and boosts self-confidence.

Personal Development:

Stepping outside one’s comfort zone is a catalyst for personal growth. Youth Exchange challenges students to adapt to unfamiliar situations, cultivating resilience, problem-solving skills, and adaptability. Overcoming obstacles abroad equips participants with the tools to face challenges with confidence and optimism throughout their lives.

Global Network:

The friendships formed during a Youth Exchange endure beyond borders and time zones. Students connect with peers from around the world, fostering a global network of like-minded individuals. This network becomes a source of support, collaboration, and cultural exchange long after the program ends.

Enhanced Leadership Skills:

Navigating a foreign environment fosters independence and leadership. Youth Exchange participants often find themselves making decisions and taking the initiative, leading to enhanced self-reliance and leadership skills. These qualities are transferable to various life situations, from academic pursuits to future career endeavors.

Broadened Perspective:

Experiencing different cultures firsthand challenges preconceptions and encourages open-mindedness. The Youth Exchange journey inspires students to view the world through a broader lens, cultivating a sense of global citizenship and an understanding of the interconnectedness of societies.

Conclusion:

The Youth Exchange experience is more than a journey; it’s a transformative odyssey that nurtures personal development, cultural understanding, and lifelong connections. As participants embrace diverse cultures and confront challenges head-on, they emerge as empowered global citizens ready to shape a better future. If you’re eager to embark on a life-altering adventure, the Youth Exchange program awaits with its promise of unforgettable growth and exploration.

Ready to embark on a journey that will change your life? Discover the world through the Youth Exchange experience and unlock a realm of personal growth, cultural immersion, and lifelong friendships. Join us today and set the course for a future filled with endless possibilities.

The post The Transformative Benefits of the Youth Exchange Experience appeared first on North Star Rotary Youth Exchange.