Stories from Academic Year in America

  • Home
  • About the AYA Blog
  • Host Family Stories
  • Exchange Student Stories
  • FAQs
  • Request Info
  • Apply

“What’s Next, Regenia?” The Unexpected Legacy of a COVID-Era Exchange Year

July 31, 2026 AYA Leave a Comment

AYA Local coordinator and Host parent Regina and exchange student

March 2020 was difficult for many of us, but for AYA high school exchange students, Local Coordinators, and host families facing the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, it was especially challenging. Young people from around the world were suddenly living in U.S. … [Read more...]

Host Family Stories, Local Coordinator Stories Academic Year in America, AYA, covid-19, cultural exchange, Exchange Student, exchange students, exchange year, high school exchange year, host family, LC reflection, local coordinator

Coping with COVID-19: Managing Stress & Anxiety as a Host Family

March 19, 2020 AYA 1 Comment

COVID-19

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) may be stressful for people. Fear and anxiety about a disease can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger. … [Read more...]

News coronavirus, covid-19, Exchange Student, host family, mental health

About AYA

AYA logo

Academic Year in America (AYA) is sponsored by the AIFS Foundation, a not-for-profit organization founded in 1967. Its mission is to promote worldwide understanding through cultural exchange.

Search

Follow us

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • TikTok
  • YouTube

Categories

  • Exchange Student Stories
  • FAQs
  • Host Family Stories
  • Local Coordinator Stories
  • News
  • Volunteerism Stories

Recent Posts

  • When Hosting Does Not Go According to Plan—and Still Changes a Life
  • Helping an Exchange Student Pursue Their Passions
  • Beyond the School Year: How Host Family & Exchange Student Relationships Last
  • How Hosting Strengthens Schools and Communities
  • Cultural Exchange Happens Around the Dinner Table

Copyright © 2026 · Daily Dish Pro Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in