I like your idea. Was thinking about it and I remembered--there are "domestic exchange" student programs as well. Your idea gives Lois more of a fish-out-of-water situation-- different language, culture, landscape, etc.--but the domestic option would simplify the background for a shorter story.
I was having a fish-out-of-water experience when I found out about domestic exchanges and it made quite an impression on me at the time. My mom had moved to California within a few weeks of my H.S. graduation. Shortly afterwards I went into the Army for two years and then I went to school out there, but I hated the climate and I was homesick as hell for Michigan. The thought of being back in Michigan, going to school here and getting credit back there was really appealing.
