A young Japanese student’s visit to the U.S. through a Wisconsin 4-H program ends Saturday, but the student’s connection with his host family in Shawano will endure.
Steve Rhodes, his wife, Sandy, and their son, John, welcomed 13-year-old Shonoske Hata, of Chiba, Japan, to the U.S. on July 25. A day later, “Sho” and John were headed to a four-day 4-H camp.
Besides the 4-H camp, the family has taken Sho on various excursions throughout the area. They went camping, hiked at the Navarino Nature Center and went tubing on Shawano Lake, just to name a few.
“It’s everyday summer activities jammed into three weeks,” Steve said.
Steve said that the family wanted to show Sho what the United States is really like without the filter of the media.
“It’s great to share America and Wisconsin as opposed to what they see on the news,” he said.
The state 4-H exchange program also helps foreign students learn English during their stay in the U.S.
Sho spoke very little English and was very shy when he arrived, so communication was difficult. He would often say “yes” or “OK” to things that he did not understand.
But he has learned quickly by reading books in English with the family. They help him with pronunciation and meaning. The rest has been through pure dialogue immersion.
The Rhodes have learned a lot from Sho, as well. They have learned about cultural differences, most notably the importance of gift giving. There was a gift swap when Sho arrived, and they are sending gifts for Sho’s family when he leaves.
The Rhodes plan to stay in touch with Sho and his family through letters and Skype. Sho’s parents have even offered to host John in Japan.
