Kiki Esselman joins International Cultural Exchange Services
MONROE — Kiki Esselman of Monroe is working with the International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) as a local coordinator promoting cultural exchange and building stronger communities.
Esselman was raised in Michigan before moving to Ohio. She attended Bowling Green State University and had the opportunity to study abroad in Korea.
“Since moving back to Michigan, I have been able to explore the beauty of Michigan and have fallen in love with the views,” Kiki Esselman said in a written statement. “I enjoy reading, cooking, eating, music, archery (as of recently), taking walks, and learning about other cultures. … I'm excited to work with exchange students because it allows me to help others explore another side of the world.”
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Esselman said she is thrilled for the opportunity to work with international high school students and local families that host them. She said she feels having exchange students in local schools and communities increases mutual understanding and improves relationships between countries.
As a coordinator, Esselman will work with families and schools in Monroe and in the surrounding area. She is currently looking for families that would like to host for the school year of 2024.
ICES is an international nonprofit youth exchange organization committed to educational study abroad programs. According to the organization, exchange students live as a member of the host family — not as a guest or boarder. They participate in family activities, follow host family rules, and help with chores.
Students have their own medical insurance and spending money to cover all personal expenses. The host families provide a place to live and meals along with parental guidance to the student.
“I’m looking forward to forming a network with students and host families,” she said.
For more information, contact Esselman at kesselman@icesusa.org or call 313-444-9375.
This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Kiki Esselman joins International Cultural Exchange Services
