Over 100,000 young people have participated in the programs of the Experiment in International Living since the action commenced in 1932. “Homestay” — living with a family and engaging in whatever it is that they do in normal life — is the backbone of this enterprise. It’s probably the best way to learn about folks different than yourself. There are adult programs, too.
School For International Training is their academic division,
offering coursework in subjects chosen to enhance intercultural relationships. Credit can usually be arranged at your base college or university. When you hear people say “my semester abroad,” it’s often this program.