About the exchange
The Sutherland Lakewood Student Exchange Program is now asking for enquiries from Sutherland Shire Students who would like to apply for next years student exchange program. We are looking for students who will be in Year 9; (in 2011) and who live and attend High School in the Sutherland Shire. On this exchange you will spend 6 months living with an exchange partner & his or her family in Colorado U.S.A between July 2012 & January 2013. You will attend an American High School & maybe experience a white Christmas. You & your family will then host your American partner between January & July 2013.
Who can apply? 
To apply you must be in year 9 this year (2011) in a high school in the Sutherland Shire. You must also live in the Sutherland Shire.
What will I do in America?
You will have the time of your life! You will attend an American High school, have the chance to compete in an American sport or other school activity.
You will live with and become part of an American family, who will be doing their best to showcase their country to you. You will spend time camping, hiking and skiing the rocky mountains, visit the Grand Canyon, experience Halloween and Thanksgiving and maybe have a white Christmas, and if all goes well spend a few days in Disneyland on the way home.
What happens when I return home?
The fun and adventures continue as you have the chance to show how great Australia is to your American partner.
How much will all this cost my parents?
The main costs are airfares and insurance (approx $4000*). For the ski weekend, Grand Canyon Week and Disneyland trip allow about another $3000-$4000*. The cost of your schooling and board is covered by the American Family as you will pay for the American Student whilst he or she is in Australia. In past years a very large percentage of all these costs have been covered by fund raising before you leave. This fund raising is a very important part of the exchange. (* These costs can vary significantly depending on foreign exchange rates, airfares and fuel costs)
How many students are selected?
This depends on the number of students applying both in Sutherland and Lakewood. In previous years it has varied between 3 & 12. The previous exchange group (Zeal) consisted of 6 Australian and 6 American students.
What do I need to do to apply?
1. Attend one of the information nights which are advertised in the Leader newspaper and held at the Sutherland Shire Council Chambers in November and early February each year.
2. Fill out an application Form . This tells us a lot about you, your likes and dislikes, and if your application is successful will assist us in pairing you with an American student.
3. Attend a number of interviews and social events, where we will will get to know you further.
Affiliations
The Sutherland Shire Lakewood Sister City Committee Student Exchange Program is officially registered by the
NSW Registration Committee for International Secondary Student Exchange Programs.