Thinking about a cultural exchange? Great! At dothegap, our mission is to help you find that unique experience you’re looking for. And for that to happen, your profile is key. It’s not just a form; it ‘s your way of introducing yourself to the world and opening yourself up to new adventures.
Imagine you’re browsing through profiles, looking for that person or family you fit in with. What catches your eye: a profile that barely says anything or one that gives you a clear and compelling picture of who that person is? Exactly. An attractive profile for your cultural exchange, not only informs, but also connects.
How dothegap works: your direct connection
At dothegap, we make things simple so that you can contact directly with other people, families, schools or sports clubs, in a direct way, without intermediaries. The steps are that easy:
1.Create your profile: This is your starting point. Take your time to fill it in with all the information you think is relevant, don’t worry it is a very simple form but it is the first image they will take of you.
2. Define your Exchange proposal: It will be easy because you only have to complete the information that we are requesting in the form and it is very simple. Define a title for your exchange proposal, a short description that attracts attention and then report on the type of exchange you would like to make, remember that you are supply and demand so report on what you are looking for and what you offer. Be specific! and do not worry, once launched you can always go back to edit it and modify what you consider appropriate.
3. Search and connect: use our filters to find people, families or groups with similar interests. When you find someone you are interested in, you can contact them directly.
Our goal is to facilitate authentic connections and experiences that bring you real value.
How to make an attractive profile for cultural exchange?
To make sure your profile doesn’t go unnoticed, keep this in mind:
Photos that tell a story:
Clear photos of you: that show you well and not with your back turned, or of poor quality.
Images with Context: Upload photos that show your hobbies, your friends, your family or your environment! For example, if you like basketball, a photo of you playing. If you enjoy cooking, one in the kitchen. This helps the other person get a closer and more realistic idea of you. Remember to upload the photos “horizontally” once you save them in the gallery you can change the order, delete and/or add.
Your Personal Information:
Who you are and where you live: Your age and the city, town or country where you live. If your place has something special, mention it!
Your passions: What do you like to do in your free time: sports, reading, drawing, video games? Sharing your interests is key to find affinities.
Your environment (family and friends): Talk a little about your family and friends. Give an idea of the type of environment in which you move.
Languages you speak: Indicate the languages you speak and your level – it’s essential to communicate!
Favorite food: A curious detail that can break the ice: Is there a typical dish from your area that you love?
Previous experience: If you have already done an exchange, tell us about it! What did you learn?
A fun fact: something funny or quirky about you. It will make your profile more memorable.
Your window to your culture:
Describe your place: not just the name, what makes your country, city or town special, its history, its environment, its nature?
Traditions and customs: share a local tradition or holiday that you like. This is very interesting for those who are looking for cultural immersion.
Local gastronomy: mention a typical dish of your region that you think visitors should try.
Curiosities of your area: something that does not appear in the guidebooks, a little secret of your locality.
Define your exchange search:
What are you looking for: language improvement, cultural experience, sports, travel partners?
Ideal Country or language: Do you have a specific destination or language in mind? You can be specific, but sometimes, being flexible opens unexpected doors!
When would you like to? Indicate the time of year you would like to make the exchange.
Type of Exchange: This is very important!
–Reciprocal: Do you want the other person to come to your house and then you go to theirs?
–Host only: Do you just want to receive someone in your home?
–Just being hosted: Do you just want to go to another country, without having to host anyone?
And finally…
Remember: the more honest and attractive information you include, the easier it will be for others to get to know you, trust you and see that you are the ideal person for the exchange. A complete and well thought-out profile will set you apart and increase your chances of finding the experience you are looking for.
You’ve got it! Now that you know how to create an attractive profile for your cultural exchange, it’s time to show the world who you are and what you have to offer. Your adventure is just a click away, be part of the international dothegap community.
