There is no school bus service to where I live and my host parents drive me to and from school every day. Therefore, I rarely participate in after-school activities.

Many of our students come from cities and towns where public transportation (buses and trains) are easily accessible. Upon arrival in the U.S. some find that public transportation is out of reach and they have to rely on their host family for rides to school and activities. With a little creativity and organization, you can find ways to get around and get involved. Some suggestions:

- Talk to your host family about rides: Do not shy away from asking your host family/Local coordinator for transportation to activities. If they are unable to take you, they can give you ideas for getting there or help you arrange a ride.

- Ask a friend: As you start making friends in your school and community, it is likely that they will be attending the same activities you are.

- Work on arranging your activities as far in advance in possible. This will give you time to ask around to host family, friends, neighbors or local coordinator. You will find that people appreciate your consideration and can arrange their schedules to accommodate you.

My host mom and I have very different personalities. We have a hard time compromising. I have tried talking with her, but it has not helped. I do not know how to make my relationship with her better.

Some tension in the host family is not uncommon. As in all relationships, you and your host family have to go through a challenging process: learning to communicate, set expectations and make compromises. If you feel that you need help expressing your feelings to your host family, contact your local coordinator or your CIEE Support Coordinator.

I can't find the common ground with my host sister/brother. We don't have any interests in common.

Awesome! This means that both you and your host sibling can open each other to new experiences. Although your interests may lead you to different activities, it may be fun to find an activity that you both enjoy. Maybe you can schedule a morning run together, or play a board game in the evenings. By being interested in your host sibling's activities, you may find some common ground.

I cannot make friends at school. Americans are not very friendly, they don't need new friends, and most of them are in closed groups which are hard to get in.

Hang in there. The first weeks at school are the hardest. As a brand new exchange student, other students may be very nervous about approaching you as well. Smile and say hello. This will show other students that you are friendly and excited to meet them. We strongly recommend that you immerse yourself in your new school by joining special clubs and other school activities. For example, joining the Chess Club will place you in the same room as other students who share the same interest. This is a great way to make fast friends and get comfortable.