Area Rep FAQs

Opening The World Through Youth Exchange ...

Area Representative FAQ

How much time does it take to fulfill the duties of a Global Insights Area Representative?
Many Area Representatives are employed full-time and perform the duties of an Area Representative on a part-time basis. They contact students and host families during evening hours and on weekends. The amount of time required for the Area Representative position varies greatly depending on the number of students placed in the area. Area Representatives should determine in advance how much time they would like to devote to the program and set their placement goals accordingly.

Is there a minimum number of students I must place?
Global Insights recommends that new Area Representatives set goals of 1-2 students, with experienced Area Representatives placing additional students based on the availability of qualified host families and schools in the area.

Will I be required to host a student in order to be an Area Representative?
No, but it is necessary that you are able to keep a student on a short-term basis should the need arise to move a student to a new host family. Many Area Representatives do choose to host a student of their own. In these cases, however, they may not supervise their own student.

Is knowledge of a second language necessary?
No. All of our students have studied English for at least 3 years and are expected to be able to communicate in English. Educational systems differ in each country. Students from European countries, where speaking and listening are emphasized more in school, tend to have better conversation skills in the beginning. Students from Asian countries may not be as strong in conversation at first, since their schools do not place as much importance on it. However, they tend to improve quickly.

How will Global Insights prepare me to perform the duties of an Area Representative?
Global Insights Area Representatives will be walked step-by-step through the Global Insights Area Representative Resource Guide. With over 200 pages of insightful material, Area Representatives will become familiar with the policies and procedures of Global Insights, as well as the sequential steps which must be taken for the program to be successful. In addition, Area Representative seminars are scheduled periodically to further develop the skills of Area Representatives.

What are common problems that may occur during the exchange experience? How will Global Insights support me?
For the most part, problems tend to be minor and manageable. The most common problem encountered by students and host families is unrealistic expectations of the exchange experience. These problems can be minimized through the planning of thorough orientations with both host families and students. When assistance is needed, Global Insights Area Representatives have the support of the Global Insights staff in Marietta, Georgia. Staff members are available during office hours and are on-call 24 hours a day to assist with emergencies.

What liability protection is provided to Area Representatives?
Our organization carries a million-dollar liability insurance policy which protects Area Representatives. In addition, natural parents sign a waiver, in which they agree they will not hold Global Insights or any of its Area Representatives responsible in a tragic event.