FLAG International was started by an exchange student, Mazi Cunha, and his American host mom 35+ years ago. The organization has been working over these 35 years to give kids in and out of the United States an opportunity to explore surrounding countries.
To be selected as an exchange student, a candidate must qualify for numerous things, like English literacy tests, be involved in activities in their current school and sit-down orientations with the applicant and their parents.
Gigi Gertsenberger, who works for FLAG International, helps kids seeking a fun experience in another country accomplish just that. With FLAG International, the main motive is to allow families to understand different cultures. Gertsenberger believes that since FLAG International came to be, it has become more than an organization but an opportunity for students to have a second family away from home.
“We expect them to come over and bring their culture, their traditions, language and holiday into the family,” Gertsenberger said
Families can pick from many countries to host a student, such as Japan, the Czech Republic, Estonia and France.
Not only are students outside of America allowed to come to the States, but American citizens are also allowed to explore another country. FLAG International offers a couple of different programs for American students. American students can do a semester or an academic year and write abroad.

“Students can do a trimester, a winter semester, a fall semester, and an academic year abroad,” Gertsenberger said.
A semester is five months, and an academic year is ten. For the sake of requirements, students are not required to be fluent in any language to qualify to study abroad. However, an understanding of the language is appreciated before applying to go abroad. FLAG Int. helps to connect a student with a family from another country, along with a coordinator who is with them every step of the way.
Rebecca Howard, who has been working with FLAG International for close to 35 years, has been a host sister, mom and completed an internship in the Netherlands over the course of her life. From a professional perspective, Howard believes that understanding cultural differences and appreciating the perspective of people different from you is crucial to having a successful career.
“Hosting a student or becoming an exchange student gives American kids a step up in building these skills,” Howard said.