Exchange Students Make Long Journey To Learn About U.S. Culture

DeLong was in charge of welcoming the exchange students from these half dozen far-away places.

Introducing them to their Arkansas host families who they'll stay with over the next year.

"They actually become a part of your family while they're here," DeLong said.

Clara of Milan, Italy quickly gravitates to another Italian exchange student, but finding someone who shares the same culture, not what the program is about.

Regoldi said she's looking forward to being out of her comfort zone.

"New people, new culture, something new," she said.

The students who range in age from 15 to 18 will attend classes at North Little Rock West, Conway and Hampton high schools.

Host mom Debbie Melton has one student at home already and is picking up one more and says she thinks by the end of their year, both sides are able to see past the stereotypes of their different cultures.

"I think it's a feeling of accomplishment, they've gained experience, knowledge they didn't have when they got here, an openness," said Melton.

And what better time to learn about different cultures and countries, than at a time when patriotism is at an all time high.

"Ours has been sitting and watching the Olympics with us," said Melton, "So it's been great."

The deadline to become a host family is August 31^st, to get more information on how to get involved: Click Here