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. Youtso from China is an exceptional example of this commitment and the winner of our Student of the Month award for October 2026!
Currently hosted in Maine, Youtso is the perfect embodiment of the AYA spirit, bringing enthusiasm and intercultural curiosity with her wherever she goes. Join us as we learn more about Youtso’s exchange experience in Maine and what’s made her journey one to remember.
Read on to learn more about Youtso’s high school exchange journey in Maine.
Since Youtso’s arrival from China, she has quickly become an active and engaged member of her community. Her Local Coordinator describes her as a breath of fresh air full of positivity, energy, and smiles. Twice each month, she volunteers at the local food bank alongside her host father, Tim, helping sort and organize food for community members in need.
Demonstrating a strong commitment to her education and personal growth, Youtso chose to enroll in both her local high school and the regional Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, where she studies Culinary Arts. She approaches her studies with dedication and works intentionally each day to strengthen her English language skills. Through her culinary classes and interactions with her host family, she enjoys sharing her culture, traditions, and favorite foods, creating meaningful opportunities for cultural exchange and understanding. She has prepared traditional dishes from China for her host family while also enthusiastically trying new American foods, with Maine red hot dogs quickly becoming a favorite.
Eager to immerse herself in American culture, Youtso has embraced new experiences and opportunities to explore New England with her host parents. She places significant value on building meaningful relationships with both friends and family, and her genuine interest in connecting with others is evident in her daily interactions. Her optimism, friendly nature, and outgoing personality make a positive impact on those she meets, while her wonderful sense of humor brings laughter and joy to those around her. Youtso has become a valued member of her small rural community, and her contributions have enriched the lives of those who know her. Youtso exemplifies Academic Year in America’s mission of fostering cultural understanding through her academic dedication, volunteer service, cultural engagement, and commitment to building meaningful relationships.”
Did you know you can host an exchange student like Youtso?
Host families from across the United States come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’d like to host for a full school year, a semester, or just for a few weeks as a Welcome Family, you can make an impact on an exchange student’s life by hosting!
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