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Kari Owens

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Kari is the National Training Director for International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES). She’s passionate about youth exchange and has experienced it from every angle. In high school, she spent an academic year in Rancagua, Chile as an exchange student, and has since been a host mom to more than a dozen exchange students. She and her husband also supported both of their daughters during their exchange years to Germany and Ecuador. Currently, Kari spends her days providing training to ICES field staff to equip them to provide outstanding support to students and host families throughout the U.S.





Recent Posts

Your student is here—or maybe they’re landing any day now. Either way, this fall kicks off a life-changing adventure for your...


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Tags: Host Families, Cultural Exchange, cultural understanding

I’ve been a coordinator for exchange students for over 20 years, and let me tell you—if I had a nickel for every amazing host...


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Tags: Welcome Family, Cultural Exchange, Youth Exchange,

If you’ve ever thought about hosting an exchange student but hesitated because your family doesn’t look like the picture-perfect...


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Tags: Host Families, Host an exchange student

If you’ve ever considered hosting a high school exchange student, you’ve probably asked yourself: Can we afford it?It’s a valid...


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Tags: Host Families, Host an exchange student, cultural understanding,

What if the most patriotic thing you could do this Fourth of July wasn’t waving a flag—but opening your front door?


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Tags: Host Families, Cultural Exchange, Youth Exchange,

When people think of high school exchange programs, the spotlight often shines on the students and host families—and rightfully...


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Tags: Cultural Exchange, American high school

When high school exchange students picture their year in the U.S., they often dream of trick-or-treating, Thanksgiving feasts,...


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Tags: Holidays, Host an exchange student, Student Experience,

When spring rolls in, something magical happens. Trees bud, flowers bloom, and cultures around the globe burst into celebration....


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Tags: cultural understanding, Spring

So, you've decided to host a foreign exchange student—exciting! Now comes one of the most fun decisions: What country should your...


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Tags: Host Families, Cultural Exchange, Host an exchange student,

One of the most exciting parts of hosting a high school exchange student is the chance to see the world through a new lens—right...


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Tags: Cultural Exchange, Host an exchange student, cultural understanding

Winter evenings offer a wonderful opportunity to slow down, enjoy cozy time indoors, and strengthen your bond with loved ones....


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Tags: Family Fun, Winter fun

Imagine this: You’re sitting at the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter with a teenager from another country who has...


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Tags: Host Families, Cultural Exchange, Host an exchange student

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