Maximizing Cultural Exchange

This upcoming school year, the Wisconsin Ayusa team, led by host mom and Ayusa Regional Director, Deb Prokop, intends to bring more exchange students to the state!

Deb has hosted 17 students from 12 different countries. She first got interested in hosting through her daughter, who became best friends with an exchange student from Denmark. The student had such a positive impact on the Prokop family, that they decided to experience the benefits of hosting for themselves. Shortly after, Deb decided to work for Ayusa as a Regional Director, as well as continuing to host. She has worked for Ayusa for 4 years and loves how thoroughly Ayusa screens their exchange students.

One of the best parts of the job for Deb is helping exchange students to maximize their American experience.  “The rewards come from knowing that I can make a difference in improving educational and cultural experiences for students and host families,” says Deb.  “The hosting experience gives families with children an educational advantage in an ever- increasing global society and will help to prepare young people for the changes of the future.”

Deb is dedicated to creating the best possible experience for the students in her care. “This job is not a job but a vocation and it allows you to be a citizen diplomat and help to build peace and understanding around the world,” says Deb.