Q: Is this program safe?
A: The Medford Alba Student Exchange has operated safely for 40 years. Student ambassadors travel with experienced adult chaperones, stay with vetted host families who have their own children in the program, and participate in organized group activities. The Italian families host your child while their child stays with you, creating mutual trust and accountability.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: The total cost in recent years has been under $3,000 per ambassador, which includes travel, travel insurance, admissions, accommodations on the side trip, and a portion of chaperone costs. Spending money is not included. Group and individual fundraising prior to travel has typically covered 80 - 100% of cost per student ambassador.
Q: What if I have never traveled internationally?
A: Many ambassadors are not yet experienced travelers. That's part of what makes it transformative. The structured, supervised program with a community of peers and chaperone support make it an ideal "first" international experience and a one-of-a-kind experience for everyone. Ambassadors gain newfound confidence and a broadened perspective.
Q: Will I stay by myself with strangers?
A: You will stay with the family of the Italian student you hosted in Medford. You will already know your Italian "sibling" and a lot about their family after having spent two weeks together in Medford. You will participate in activities with the other ambassadors and the chaperones every weekday. Everyone can connect by text or call at any moment.
Q: What about the language barrier?
A: Italian students study English in school and communicate well. Italian parents usually speak some English also, and your phone can help with translations. Medford ambassadors & chaperones attend Italian culture and language lessons before traveling. But honestly, the best communication happens through shared experiences, laughter, and the universal language of friendship.
Q: What's the time commitment to participate in the student exchange?
A: Selected student ambassadors, their parent/guardian(s), and the chaperones are required to participate in approximately 20 meetings from June 2026 until travel in March 2027 for fundraising, planning, and Italian culture education. This preparation builds community and ensures ambassadors and chaperones are ready for the trip.
Q: Do I bring my phone?
A: Yes, it is your camera and your main communication with the Italians and with home. Most ambassadors use an International phone plan while in Italy or purchase a SIM card for their phone. WiFi is widely available in Italy.
Q: What about dietary restrictions or medical needs?
A: We work closely with host families to accommodate dietary needs. Medical information is shared with chaperones and hosts. Italy has excellent medical care if needed.
Q: What is expected of American parents/guardians?
A: Parents/guardians of ambassadors are expected to participate in the approximately 20 meetings between June 2026 to March 2027 along with their ambassador to help plan the Italian visit itinerary, plan and execute fundraising efforts, and help prepare ambassadors for travel. In late August and early September, you become a host family! You'll welcome an Italian student into your home for two weeks, include them in your American family life including meals and pastimes and friends, and transport them to the planned activities. Many families report that hosting an Italian student is a meaningful experience for the whole family.
Q: What happens if there's an emergency abroad?
A: Chaperones are trained to handle emergencies, the Italian organizing committee and chaperone teachers are in close contact with the American ambassadors, chaperones, and the Italian families. Ambassadors carry emergency contact information, and the Italian host families are deeply invested in student safety. In the case that an American ambassador must return to the United States before the end of the program, they will be accompanied by one of the American chaperones.
Q: How is this exchange different from other student travel trips?
A: The Medford Alba Student Exchange emphasizes experiencing family life in one another's culture and becoming part of that family, along with exploring the history, schools, and attractions in one another's region. In addition, we ensure that ambassadors and chaperones are a close-knit community who have worked together to prepare and fundraise prior to travel. This is the special sauce that makes this experience so unique! You will NOT be on your own to come up with the cost of the trip, move all your stuff to a new hotel every night, or speed through the top attractions of a different city each day without getting to know people from another culture.
Still Have Questions?
We understand this is a big decision. We're happy to speak with you directly about any concerns or questions you have about the program.