Rotary Youth Exchange builds peace one young person at a time.
Students learn a new language, discover another culture, and truly become global citizens. Exchanges for students 15 to 18.5 years old are sponsored by Rotary clubs in more than 100 countries.
Who We Are
Rotary District 7255
Rotary District 7255 comprises all of Long Island, including Brooklyn and Queens. Rotary is an international service organization of 1.4 million members, dedicated to positively promoting and supporting worldwide sustainable projects, and world health issues that impact mankind. Rotary International is defined by "districts", and many clubs in each district. (For more information on Rotary International, its structure, and its many programs, etc. click here.)
“To work towards peace and understanding in the world.”
ROtary youth exchange program mission
Youth Exchange began during the 1920s as an effort between a handful of clubs in Europe. These European exchanges continued until World War II and resumed in 1946. The reciprocal long-term academic exchange grew in popularity during the 1950s and became the primary type of Rotary Youth Exchange. In 1972, the RI Board of Directors agreed to recommend Youth Exchange to clubs worldwide as a worthwhile international activity. Today, more than 8,000 Youth Exchange students travel abroad each year to live and study in about 100 countries.
Benefits
Culture and language fluency
Life changing experience
Enhances college applications
Enhances employment applications
Enhances a resume
Builds self confidence
Focus, Motivation, and importance of education renewed in high school and college
Long & Short Term
Long-term exchanges last a full academic year, and students attend local schools and live with multiple host families.
Short-term exchanges are a total of 6 weeks during the summer and are structured homestays that take place when school is not in session.
Lifelong Memories
As an Inbound Rotary Youth Exchange student from another country, you are expected to attend a local school and complete your coursework. But it’s not all work! Rotary District 7255 organizes multiple trips and activities for our exchange students. From a weekend at the beach, kayaking at a lake, skiing, trips to New York City, Washington DC, Boston and others. Students also have the option to join trips and activities organized by their school.
Become An Exchange Student
If you live on Long Island, NY and are considering Rotary Youth Exchange, don't hesitate. Check our resources on this page and get in contact with us to get you started in this journey. Welcome to the experience of your life, this is just the start.