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How Local Coordinators Bring the World Together

September 6, 2018 AYA 1 Comment

Wondering what makes Academic Year in America (AYA) wonderful?

Our Local Coordinators are the wheels that keep us moving and inspired.

If you’re asking why our Local Coordinators are so special, here are just a few things they do to move our world closer together.

Help Families Grow

Local Coordinators allow families to expand internationally.

Before the exchange year begins, Local Coordinators work hard to identify, screen, interview and select incredible host families within their community.

Then, AYA students’ dreams come true as they gain an American family – and host families grow, too. These family bonds are often lifelong.

Create International Relationships

Our Local Coordinators help strengthen cultural awareness in schools and open their communities’ hearts to new cultures, traditions, and friendships!

After arranging for exchange students to attend a local high school, Local Coordinators make sure their students are acclimated. They run orientation sessions, plan intercultural activities, and support students and host families throughout the year.

While helping these students become part of their community, Local Coordinators lay the groundwork for lasting global relationships.

Make America Home

For foreign exchange students, moving to America may be intimidating. However, our Local Coordinators help them feel right at home here.

During her academic year in Texas, German exchange student Lara always felt welcomed by her Local Coordinator, Lauren.

“[Lauren’s] always there for me,” Lara said. “I love to spend time with her. She’s more like a big sister to me… I’ll definitely miss her a lot when I have to go back to Germany.”

So, hats off to YOU, Local Coordinators! You inspire us every day and truly make the world a more accepting, loving and hospitable place.

Bring the world to your local community; Learn more about becoming a Local Coordinator with Academic Year in America (AYA)!

Local Coordinators, News, Volunteers Academic Year in America, cultural exchange, exchange year, host families, international high school students, local coordinator, volunteer, Why volunteer

Comments

  1. sheri schuster says

    February 14, 2021 at 12:57 pm

    Being a Local Coordinator has changed my families life, We love learning all the different cultures and sharing our family values with them. My own children are now sharing these experiences with their own families.
    I have been a LC for over 20 years and the friends and family that I have made is priceless.
    Traveling the world is a bonus for sure.

    Reply

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AYA is sponsored by the American Institute For Foreign Study (AIFS) Foundation, a not-for-profit organization founded in 1967. Its mission is to promote worldwide understanding through cultural exchange. Learn more >

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