ICES Blog | Kari Owens (2)

Kari Owens

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

By Kari Owens On January 19, 2024

How did the Idea of High School Exchange Programs Begin?

Imagine allowing your teenager to pack a bag, fly halfway around the world, and live with strangers for nearly a year. Every...

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Tags: Cultural Exchange, Youth Exchange, cultural understanding,

By Kari Owens On January 5, 2024

10 Awesome Ideas for Family Fun in 2024

As we step into the new year, it's the perfect time to prioritize quality family time and create lasting memories. Opportunities...

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Tags: Family Fun

By Kari Owens On December 22, 2023

Here's What Makes the Holidays Unforgettable for Exchange Students

Discover the heartwarming reasons why host families and exchange students love sharing the holiday season, creating a tapestry of...

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Tags: Cultural Exchange, Exchange Student, Holidays,

By Kari Owens On December 7, 2023

10 Creative Ways to Celebrate Christmas with Your Exchange Student

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas is a time for joy, love, and sharing special moments with those we care...

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Tags: Cultural Exchange, Exchange Student, Holidays,

By Kari Owens On October 20, 2023

Lost in Translation: Unraveling Cultural Misunderstandings

In the exciting world of hosting exchange students, there's more to the experience than just sharing your home and meals. It's an...

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

By Kari Owens On October 2, 2023

Why Being a High School Exchange Student is the Coolest Thing Ever!

Hey there, future globe-trotter! Ever dreamt of breaking free from the regular high school routine, choosing your dream...

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Tags: Cultural Exchange, Study Abroad, Youth Exchange

By Kari Owens On September 8, 2023

The Exchange Student's Guide to Making Friends

Are you an exchange student embarking on a thrilling adventure in a foreign land? One of the most enriching experiences of your...

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Tags: Cultural Exchange, Exchange Student, Making Friends

By Kari Owens On August 29, 2023

Who Can Be a Host Family?

As we near the end of August, you may notice an abundance of posts and ads seeking host families for exchange students. Sound...

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

By Kari Owens On August 3, 2023

You Can Become a Diplomat--No Passport Required!

Hey there, curious minds! Have you ever wondered how you, yes YOU, can play a role in international diplomacy without leaving the...

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Tags: Cultural Exchange, Host an exchange student, Citizen Diplomacy

By Kari Owens On July 28, 2023

12 Myths About Hosting an Exchange Student

Hosting an exchange student can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but there are often misconceptions that prevent people...

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

By Kari Owens On July 21, 2023

Can Homeschoolers Host Exchange Students?

Are you a homeschool parent looking for fun and unique ways to enhance your kids' learning?

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Tags: Host Families, Host an exchange student, Homeschooling

By Kari Owens On July 14, 2023

Can’t Host an Exchange Student All Year? Be a Welcome Family!

As we plow through summer with a new school year just around the corner, ICES staff are working tirelessly to secure a host...

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Tags: Welcome Family, Host Families

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