WHAT WILL YOU BE EXPECTED TO DO AS AN EXCHANGE STUDENT?

As an exchange student , you will be expected to represent your peers and your school in everything that you do at your host school. You may have to meet important dignitaries, or give an illustrated presentation about the school or a school project. You will be expected to participate fully in the programme of studies and activities provided for you, ensuring that you are on time and fully equipped for each. You should be prepared to interact with people of other nations, races and creeds, who have different belief systems to those of your own. You should be prepared to accept and celebrate in the differences that exist among students, not just in the similarities they share. You should be willing to demonstrate an aspect of your own culture in front of an audience, either as an individual, or as part of a group, in music, song, mime, dance or spoken word. On your return to Markham, you will be expected to give an account of your experiences to a school assembly, or to a meeting of students, teachers or parents. You may be asked to provide a written report and photographs for a school publication. You will, of course, be expected to make all necessary arrangements to ensure that you do not fall behind with your studies at Markham. This may mean extra classes or assignments before you leave for the exchange, by email or Intranet whilst you are there, or on your return to Markham.

Going on exchange for an extended period of time is a challenge. It is not a holiday, a sight-seeing tour or a shopping trip. It will have its high moments and its dull moments, but these are all part of the experience and the fun. A successful exchange student will be sociable and unafraid of adventure. They will have a certain level of maturity, an open mind, the ability to work both as an individual and as part of a group, and a sense of humour!