Our students are in the middle of their fall semester and they are up to all sorts of things at school and in their communities. One of the special things about our program is that our students have the opportunity to be a Student Advocate for Global Awareness (SAGA). SAGA is a wonderful way for our students to participate in activities that increase cross-cultural understanding and knowledge, leading to greater mutual understanding and respect through volunteerism.
Syed from Pakistan is a YES student on our program living in Texas with his host family. Check out what Syed has been up to as a SAGA member.
First of all I would to thank you for giving me this opportunity to write as a guest blogger on the AYA blog. The month of October has been more productive than I thought and I hope next month is even better!
As an AYA exchange student I got to join SAGA as a student ambassador of my home county and I have been able to share my culture and traditions with my American friends and host family. This past month I had the wonderful opportunity to present to one my classes about Pakistan. I presented on basic geography, history and culture of Pakistan. The presentation lasted one hour and the response of my teacher and classmates was overwhelming. I felt so honored to share my culture with them.
In addition to spreading cross-cultural awareness, I also volunteered as a swim timer at two swim competitions at my school. That was a lot of hours but the experience was amazing! I also volunteered at a fundraising event at St. Joseph Academy for Guadalupe regional middle school. I am very proud to have had these chances to get involved and give back.
When I’m not volunteering I play tennis and I am a member of the drama club. Recently, I played in a doubles tournament and placed 3rd overall and received a bronze medal! It has been an immense pleasure being a part of this program and it has afforded me opportunities that I never thought I would have experienced!
Syed has really jumped in at school and in his community as a student advocate for global awareness. We are so happy to see our students trying new things and more importantly learning along the way! If you’re interested in joining SAGA, learn more, here or email saga@aifs.org to get involved today!
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