Greenheart is asked a lot about what it’s like to host an exchange student. Well, we hope you’ll follow along this coming year with Meghan, a series from a first-time host mom! Meghan is about to welcome Blanka, her exchange student from Poland! You can find posts on our Facebook and Instagram pages and stories, and catch up here if you miss one.
Friday, August 22, 2025
I am becoming a MOM today! Or “MUM” as Blanka, the girl who I will be picking up from the airport tonight calls me. I’ve always wanted to host an exchange student after studying abroad in college and being the recipient of so much kindness and hospitality while away from family and friends. That experience was lifechanging for me.
When I applied to be a host mom, I found myself wondering if I would be “good enough” for the student and if they and their parents would accept me as their host family. As a woman who is not married and does not have kids, I wondered if my offer to host would be disappointing to someone – but it was the opposite!
After Blanka received her placement, she emailed me right away telling me how excited she was and thankful I wanted to host her. Her parents also expressed gratitude and confidence in their daughter’s choice to be an exchange student. I felt really honored by this response and overwhelmed with gratitude.
The Anticipation of Blanka’s Arrival
She arrives tonight! I am so excited to meet her but honestly unsure about how life will look in the days ahead. I’ve never had a child to be responsible for, to make sure they get to school, to help them stay healthy and safe – but I am trusting the process Greenheart has provided and know I can ask for help anytime. Blanka and I will learn our way through the “unknowns” together and we’ll share that bond of mutual experience forever.
Be thinking about us tonight at 11:30 p.m. when she arrives and we meet in person for the first time! And look for an update on the first few days of our exchange journey next week!
This is only the start of my journey with Blanka, so follow along on our social media or here for more updates!
💚 Meghan
Are you interested in opening your heart and home to an international high school student? Visit HostWithGreenheart.org to apply to host!
Know of a family who might be a good fit to host? Visit ReferWithGreenheart.org and if they are new hosts with Greenheart, you earn a reward!