Can I request that my host be a particular race or color?
No. Global Student Services, USA has a policy of non-prejudice with regard to race, creed, color or religion. In coming to Los Angeles, you must remember….LA is one of the most diverse cities in the United States. Therefore, our hosts are also of varying backgrounds, race, color and religion and each host is equally respected. You must be open-minded and accepting in order to have the most enjoyable homestay experience.
How close to the school does the Homestay live?We have many hosts to choose from throughout the Los Angeles area. Students are placed within 1-10 miles of their school campus and have access to public transportation. In order to ensure that you have one of our more preferable locations, it is on a first come – first served basis. That means you would need to apply as soon as possible to Global Student Services, USA.
Is there public transportation nearby?Yes, the majority of students rely on public transportation to get to and from school each day, it is very rare to be within walking distance of school. We do try to keep students as close to school as possible.
How long will it take to commute to the school?The commute should be no longer 40 minutes bus ride, usually less, again, we try to keep you as close as possible. Of course, traffic affects the travel time. Flexibility in you r preferences can play a big part in the distance to school.
Will I have internet access/service?
It is not the hosts responsibility to provide internet access. Internet access/services are negotiated once you arrive. Some homestays already have internet access with wireless capability that you can use, of course compatibility with your computer may vary. If internet access is not readily available, you can discuss your options for installation with the host. Of course, you would be responsible for all expenses.
What are the household rules?Hosts are asked to be specific regarding their particular house rules. The guidelines should be fair and reasonable.
May I have overnight guests?Each host is different with regard to house rules. Some do not mind overnight stays as long as they are of the same gender. Some allow an occasional visitor or study group. You should always check with your host for their permission.
Am I expected to do any chores?The only chore most hosts require is that you pick-up (clean up) after yourself. The host will provide clean linen, and two meals per day. Personal laundry is your responsibility. The cleaning up of your room is your responsibility. You will discuss this topic with your host once you have arrived.
Will I have a private phone line?Private phone lines are negotiated once you arrive. Some homestays already have a line that you can activate and put in your name, (which you will be solely responsible for, with regard to payment), others may not.
What is the latest that I may receive phone calls?Phone usage will be discussed and negotiated with your host once you arrive.
Will I have a private bathroom? Some homestays have private bathroom and others have shared bathrooms. Additional fees apply for requested private bathrooms. Availability not guaranteed (additional fees would be refunded if no availability).
What Types of Rooms are available?
HOMESTAYS: Selected for you , with local hosts, in a furnished room. In most cases, rooms are private. In some
large rooms, it could be divided in two rooms, each with their own privacy. The occupants will be of the same gender.
Are there other students in the household?In many homestays, there are no other students in the same household. Some of our homestays do host other students. If being the only student in the household is a requirement of yours, please state that on your application. Global Student Services, USA will do our best to accommodate you.
Is there a curfew?Curfew will be discussed with your Homestay once you arrive. If you are under 18 years old, curfew by law is 10:00pm, but may be earlier for your host.
Are there any pets in the house?Most American families have one or two pets as part of their household. Again, if you do not mind pets, or if you specifically do not want a Homestay with animals, you must specify your preference on your application. (Global will do our best to oblige you, but again, it is on a first come first served basis.)
Why does the host wish to house a student?All of our homestays are carefully screened. My opinion is, that our homestays appreciate the cultural exchange and enjoy having students in their home.
What is the primary language spoken in the house?We request of our homestays that only English be spoken to our students while in their home. (Most of our students come to the United States to improve their English skills and speaking their own language or another language, would defeat that purpose.) Many hosts do speak other languages and that should be respected as well, but we do expect is to be kept to a minimum in front of the student.
What is the religious orientation of the household, and will the hosts have any expectations of my own religious activities?As most Americans are of varying Ethnicity their religious orientation is a question that we do not ask. Global Student Services, USA has a policy of non-prejudice with regard to race, creed, color or religion. Should the issue of religious practices come up, it should be discussed with your Homestay upon your arrival or with a representative of Global Student Services, USA prior to your arrival. We feel that religion should play no part in homestay.
Does the household observe any dietary practices or restriction?Global Student Services, USA makes a concerted effort to match our students as close as possible to their Homestay. With regard to any dietary practices or restrictions, if this is a requirement, you must specify what your needs are on your application.
If meals are included in the monthly fee, and if I don’t like the food, may I get a rate adjustment and cook my own meals?Meal rate adjustments are done on an individual basis. If Global Student Services, USA deems that an adjustment should be made, and is accepted by the host, an adjustment will be made.
What will the Homestay company do if I am not happy with the family with whom I have been placed?If there is a problem with the host, we require an attempt, between you and the host, to resolve the issue. Communication between you and the host can usually resolve any issues that may arise. If you wish to have Global Student Services assist you in a resolution, we would be happy to do so…just contact our office and we can discuss the matter. If the matter can not be resolved, then we will move you to another host, upon availability. Students should only request to move if absolutely necessary. There may be a charge for the move.
Is smoking allowed in the house?Most homestays do not allow smoking in the home, some allow outside only, and some, not at all. Please specify on your application whether or not you smoke.
Will someone meet me at the airport?Arrangements for pick up or alternate transportation will be made by our office. You and the host will be advised as necessary.
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Global Student Services. USA, Inc.
An eco-friendly, green company
Mailing Address Only:
C/o 1436 Brett Pl #18
San Pedro, CA 90732
Appointments are required. Thank you.
Phone (310)438-7485 Fax (424) 254-2304
Email: info@global-student-service.com
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