Politics

No, I didn't get into long political discussions with either intern. The last category to consider is politics, however, since there is an implied understanding about reciprocation that gets a bit dizzying. I understand that both host families can expect to receive an invitation from the intern or the intern's family for a place to stay while in the others' country. It's probably fair to expect that, but if it's not offered, then it's not offered. However, the politics seem to come in from other directions, as well. Our first intern did some tutoring and was invited to some events with the family that hired her. They're planning on a trip to Germany. She also met a local college student who is planning on a trip to Germany (and she was initially going to bring several friends). Who knows how many others were lining up for a chance to stay in a nice place while touring another country. Don't get me wrong, I did the same thing back in college: my best friend and I hung out with an exchange student named Phil several times before he returned to Germany, and we asked if we could see him, so he offered to host us for three days. His host family probably pegged us as freeloaders, but it was nice to have the place to crash, so I get it, but it's just something you'll have to deal with if you host. 

You may also have to deal with the politics of disappointment. We heard some complaining about assignments and other host families. My theory is that the Germans spoil their kids as much as we do, and those kids come over here with certain expectations. Unfortunately for them, perhaps, MGIS is a Milwaukee Public School and the parents are not in the top one percent. The other problem is that the interns are not told enough. They need to know that they'll be teaching German all day. They need to know that a lot of host families are stretching to take them in. A bit more communication would limit many of the issues we heard about.