Exchange Student Stories

Student Spotlight: Ilina from North Macedonia Hosted in Texas

June 3, 2026 AYA Leave a Comment

Time and again, we see how an exchange year can shape a high school student’s life in lasting ways. For Ilina, an exchange student from North Macedonia spending her year in Texas, that journey has been filled with new experiences, meaningful connections, and moments that have … [Read more...]

America250 Student Reflections Contest: Experiencing the U.S. Through Exchange Students’ Eyes

May 28, 2026 AYA Leave a Comment

This year, as the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, Academic Year in America (AYA) invited its current exchange students to participate in something special to mark the occasion. In partnership with the U.S. … [Read more...]

Student Spotlight: Arfa from Indonesia Hosted in Texas

May 11, 2026 AYA Leave a Comment

Time and again, we see how an exchange year can shape a high school student’s life in lasting ways. For Arfa, an exchange student from Indonesia spending his year in Texas, that journey has been filled with new experiences, meaningful connections, and moments that have pushed him … [Read more...]

Student of the Month: Milana from Turkmenistan, Hosted in Texas

April 29, 2026 AYA Leave a Comment

Each month at AYA, we take time to recognize some of the truly exceptional exchange students from our program. This month, we’re happy to name Milana from Turkmenistan as the Student of the Month for April 2026! Read on to learn more about Milana’s high school exchange journey … [Read more...]

Student Spotlight: Houriegodny from Indonesia Hosted in South Carolina

April 25, 2026 AYA Leave a Comment

We’re excited to spotlight one of our incredible exchange students who truly represents the heart of cultural exchange. Meet Houriegodny—who goes by Fira—an inspiring exchange student from Indonesia currently spending her high school year in South Carolina. Between embracing new … [Read more...]

Student of the Month: Roman from Ukraine, Hosted in Maine

March 30, 2026 AYA Leave a Comment

While every AYA student is committed to cultural exchange and intercultural learning, some truly go above and beyond—creating a lasting impact on their host family and community that deserves a special shoutout. Roman from Ukraine is an exceptional example of this commitment … [Read more...]