The objective of the Short-Term Exchange Program is to foster world peace, international understanding and good will by extending international communication at the personal level through the exchange of students of high school age. It is our hope that these students will be able to see firsthand the problems and accomplishments of other peoples of different colors, creeds, and cultures.

Branford Rotary’s ESSEX Short-Term Family-to Family Exchange arranges for the student’s family to host a matching Rotary applicant (between the ages of 15 and 18 1/2 years) usually during the summer. Exchanges can be arranged between the two families for not less than 3 weeks and not more than 6 weeks. The exchange in each country is for an equal amount of time except for Argentina, Australia, Brazil, India, and South Africa.

Travel to the host country is arranged by each student’s family communicating with the other student’s family, determining dates, times and airlines to be booked for the exchange. Frequently, students who exchange first accompany their host sibling on the return flight home.

The earlier an application arrives, the better your chance of exchanging in your first choice country. It is also helpful for placement if you are able to host a student of either gender.

Any student, age 15-18-1/2, of good character who possesses a warm personality and a desire to live abroad and host in return is eligible for Rotary’s Short-Term Exchange. Candidates should be adaptable and flexible, well mannered and want to experience life in other countries and cultures. Children of both Rotarians and non-Rotarians are eligible.