Program Design, Expectations and Communication
The Communications Big Dipper: An Explanation
The Communications Big Dipper provides exchange participants with a visual image of how the various YFU Community
College Program (CCP) players work together. The most important part of the diagram is the shaded triangle on the right—
“Critical Triangle.” This is where the exchange takes place...in the host family home, on the college campus, and in the
broader community.
As an international homestay and academic exchange experience for young adults, the YFU Community College Program
immerses students in both a community and college campus environment. Host families enable students to experience the
host culture and to become part of the community. By sharing their native culture with host families, YFU students provide
host families with an equally important cultural experience.
The college community also participates in the exchange. Faculty, staff, and students benefit as YFU international students
contribute an important international dimension to the college. The college community, in return, offers YFU students
opportunities to pursue rigorous academic, technical, or English language training and to take part in extracurricular,
athletic, and volunteer activities.
The person who facilitates the exchange on all these levels is the YFU Campus Coordinator. Appointed by the college, the
Campus Coordinator supports YFU students and their host families. YFU USA trains and supports Campus Coordinators.
The Communications Big Dipper Diagram shows the Campus Coordinator’s key role in the YFU support structure: s/he stays
in contact with all members of the exchange. The Campus Coordinator completes the critical triangle which includes host
families and YFU students and provides support in key areas:
Host Family/Student Support. Students and families are expected to support and communicate directly with one
another. Host families assist students with adjusting to a new culture and adapting to college life in the USA. Students also
contribute to and participate in family life. If communication between student and host family breaks down, the Campus
Coordinator is available to help.
Orientation and Information. The Campus Coordinator directs structured orientations and conducts regular meetings for
exchange participants to gather information, address issues, plan activities, and learn about recreational options.
Liaison with Campus Resources. Students can benefit from the many faculty, staff, counselors, and other trained
professionals who assist YFU college students. The Campus Coordinator assists the student with identifying appropriate
college staff for advanced course approvals, tutoring, and other academic services.
CCP students must take responsibility to:
1. access the support available to them;
2. approach and cooperate with others to resolve difficulties; and
3. explore new opportunities for personal growth provided by the exchange experience.
Generally, the Campus Coordinator relays most routine requests for information or support to the Campus Coordinator;
however, students and host families can contact YFU USA directly. CCP staff will refer an issue back to the appropriate
college representative if contacted about an issue that must involve the Campus Coordinator or College Liaison. Most
adjustment, host family, academic, and policy issues can only be thoroughly addressed with the help of educators at the
college.
CCP HANDBOOK - 5