Stories from Academic Year in America

Living Like a Local: Tanzanian Exchange Student Makes Maple Syrup with New York Host Family

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While in the United States, Academic Year in America (AYA) exchange students learn an array of new and exciting things. Whether they’re joining sports teams, volunteering, or just participating in everyday American customs, exchange students experience plenty of fun firsts while … [Read more...]

Top Things AYA Exchange Students Love About Their Host Families

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The relationships between Academic Year in America (AYA) exchange students and host families are filled with love. Not only do host families learn life-changing lessons by hosting exchange students, but they also create life-long bonds. A few AYA exchange students shared what … [Read more...]

Giving Back to the Community Helps Ohio Exchange Students Overcome Culture Shock

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While so far from home, culture shock is inevitable for many international exchange students. However, by getting involved in their communities, Academic Year in America (AYA) exchange students overcome culture shock as they start to feel at home. Regenia, a Local Coordinator … [Read more...]

How YES & FLEX Hosts are Changing the Future

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The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program and the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program are unique cultural exchange programs administered by AYA, that work to improve global understanding between the U.S. and other nations.  As the world becomes increasingly … [Read more...]

To AYA Local Coordinators, With Love: Part 2

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All across the country, AYA exchange students get a lot of support from Local Coordinators. These folks work hard to help students and host families make meaningful connections and enjoy their participation in international high school exchange. In honor of Valentine's Day, … [Read more...]

To AYA Local Coordinators, With Love: Part 1

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All across the country, AYA exchange students get a lot of support from Local Coordinators. These folks work hard to help students and host families make meaningful connections and enjoy their participation in international high school exchange. In honor of Valentine's Day, … [Read more...]