Today we’d like to introduce you to Gigi Gerstenberger.
Hi Gigi, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I did a 1985 high school summer athletic exchange in England. That began a love of travel and learning about other countries, cultures, and people. I hosted a student, Anna, from Prague, Czech Republic, and then became a Community Representative finding families, helping them select the right exchange student for them, and working along with the schools to ensure a smooth integration. I married Andreas, who is German. He did a high school exchange to the U.S. We are a blended family with 5 kids. 3 American, 2 German +Anna, our Czech daughter by fate as I call her. 3 of our kids have studied in other countries. We are very passionate about exchange and all it brings not only to the students who come from over 70 different countries to the U.S. but for how it positively impacts the American families as well. I have two roles with Ayusa (A Year in the USA). A 42-Year-Old, Non-Profit, Educational Program. I am the Northeast Ohio Community Representative and the U.S. Director of Outbound Programs for American high school students, graduates/adults. The outbound programs include high school, AuPair, College Internships, Tutoring English in Germany, or Summer or High School in Japan. You don’t have to be speak German or Japanese to be in the programs.
What I love most is the impact it has on the lives of all involved. Extended families, community, student bodies. Being a part of the selection process and seeing the relationships that grow between families and exchange student as I have experienced it myself, is beautiful. I am still in touch with the family I stayed with when I was only 15. Knowing it will last a lifetime and that our world comes closer together, one student and family at a time. It is a reminder that no matter where we come from, we have so much in common and so much to learn from each other. Having a student in your home for a semester or an academic year allows you to see your life through a fresh lens, with new perspective, and share that family’s American version of life. By sharing stories, memories, recipes, traditions, language, and love we are creating ambassadors for America who go back to their countries with fond memories of American families, schools, and communities. We can all be global citizens by opening our hearts to the experience of exchange.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Every family, like every student, and every country culture is different. A young person who leaves their family, friends, school, pets, comfort zone is bound to have some days of homesickness or wondering how best to fit into their new American life. When students have those days I help the family, if needed, with discussions points or speak to them and the student to provide support. If a student has any problem in school, I also communicate with counselors to see if it is a terminology issue or they need some extra help with homework, etc. These high school students come over and from one day to the next have to communicate, learn, and are surrounded completely by a language that is not their mother tongue. And even though they are independently tested for English fluency, grade levels, and maturity…they are still kids. So, some extra hugs and how can I help you if you are feeling a little homesick or if they might be sad about missing some big events going on at home while they are away is offered, we pride ourselves on our quality students. We expect 900 high school students from 70+ countries for the 23/24 school year to be placed in every state in the U.S. When they are selected by a family it takes some days for everyone to learn their place in the family flow to find a friend group, succeed in making a team or joining clubs. I speak with the students and families at least once a month to ensure everyone is settling in and that we address any bumps in the road together. It is very rewarding to see the students blossom and the family’s relationship deepend with the student to where they truly feel they have a new family member, not just a guest in their home.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I started working at age 13. After high school, I went to college and eventually completed an MBA at 40. My education took longer because I had three children and worked full-time as a single mother. Including two years working while attending Graduate School. Most of my career was Corporate Automotive, then Robotics, but I also spent time in the medical and legal arenas. My jobs varied from Assistant to CEO, Marketing & Communications, Sales, Director of HR, Testing for the Department of Education, starting my own business – Meraki Business Solutions, and for the past years working for Ayusa International. Many people might see so many changes in a career as a negative. But I had my reasons; one was opportunity and interest but the other was a family to support and provide for. With each change, I met amazing people and learned much along the way. Each company and role brought new growth opportunities and challenges. I have traveled to 36 countries and worked with and met people from all over the world. When you appreciate what you can learn from every situation you are in, it is very rewarding. I have enjoyed a great diversity of people, languages, foods, gained understanding of traditions, methods, perceptions. I believe my life experiences have led me to be able to connect to most anyone with ease. I am a natural networker and seek ways to bring people together. I believe my passion is very clear when I am speaking with someone. You know I am all in. I am present. Passionate and excited about whatever opportunity or learning that may come from our meeting each other. I do believe you meet everyone for a reason. To think that I may play some small part in people from different countries being placed together and a bond forming that keeps them and their extended families connected for a lifetime, that is an amazing feeling. We live in a very big world that keeps getting smaller because of our shared experiences, the bonds and love that grow between us.
What do you think about happiness?
1. My family. Five children ages 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 – they are building their lives and there is so much good stuff to come. Marriages, kids, etc. I am so proud of them. They bring me great joy.
2. My husband. I love being in love and married. Having an amazing partner/best friend who shares my passion for travel, adventure, education, exchange, life experiences, and believing we can leave a legacy of impact on others.
3. Organizing events or gatherings. Because it brings people together. I love my planner!
4. Doing something for the right reasons. Regardless of who knows or sees. It makes me happy because I am reminded I am staying true to myself and the type of person I want to be. In this fast-paced, busy world, we often forget to take time to check if all the movement is really taking us where we want to be.
5. Ice Cream. Doesn’t that make everyone happy?
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ayusa.org
- Instagram: gigi_gerstenberger
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gigi.f.kreutzer
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gigi-gerstenberger-mba-a772711/
