Every year approximately 8,000 students world wide ages 15 1/2 to 18 1/2 go abroad under the auspices of the Rotary Youth Exchange program, either for the academic year or an extended period of time. The increased self awareness and global perspective that they derive from the experience would not be possible without the commitment of the many volunteer host families and the dedication of volunteer Rotarians who serve as Youth Exchange officers and committee members.
And every year 25 - 30 students from Rotary District 5190 go abroad to 20 countries, and approximately 25 - 30 students come into communities in the eastern Sierra and northern Nevada.
"I consider the last six months of my life the best to date. Really. I have seen so much I have trouble believing it myself. But what’s even greater, is the fact that I have another five to top it off! I owe many heartfelt “thanks” to the Rotary Clubs of Pollock Pines/Camino and Placerville and District 5190; you guys have really made me one happy exchange student."
(Ian, Outbound to Germany 2003 - 2004)
"Hey Guys -- I'm really sorry that I haven't sent any news since I've been back but I simply didn't have the time because I went on vacation almost right away, without Internet. Well I'm glad everybody is doing well. Here nothing has changed but I see it differently. I miss the US so much, especially my host families and, of course, you guys that sometimes it's hard to realize that this year is over and belongs to the past. Of course we'll go back someday but nothing is going to be the same. Sometimes I just think about all the great things that happened to me this year, the wonderful people I had the chance to meet and there's no easier way to put a smile on my face. I really hope I'll see you guys again in the future and if not I want to thank you just for being a part of the best year of my life."
(Paul, Inbound from France 2004 - 2005)
