Hosting an international high school student has a lasting impact on American families, in particular on the host children, who gain not only a unique first-hand cultural exchange experience, but also a lifelong sibling and friend. There are many ways in which the hosting … [Read more...]
What to Expect as an AYA Host Family
There is nothing quite like the excitement of meeting a foreign exchange student who is about to become a part of your household! You become surrogate parents and gain a “new” son or daughter when you participate in cultural exchange through hosting with AYA. Expectant host … [Read more...]
Reflecting and Goal-Setting: AYA Students at Mid-Year Orientation
Government sponsored students are required to participate in a Mid-Year Orientation and AYA is pleased to be able to offer our students the opportunity to attend a group orientation. The AYA Mid-Year Orientation provides invaluable cultural education and student support during … [Read more...]
Congrats to the AYA Host Family of the Year 2016!
Each year, AYA students and Local Coordinators (LCs) nominate host families across the country for the honor of Host Family of the Year. It is always difficult to choose a winner from all of the nominations. We're reminded each year that AYA host families make such a huge impact … [Read more...]
FLEX & YES Students Share AYA Memories
The FLEX and YES grants, provided by the Department of State, enable students from all over the world to study, volunteer and experience America. These students are extremely bright, talented and hardworking. They are wonderful additions to host families and high schools across … [Read more...]
Hosting Lays the Foundation of International Understanding
When you host an international exchange student, you lay a foundation for teamwork and communication across nations, cultures and generations. When you support global citizenship and become a host family with Academic Year in America, you become a beacon of hope for international … [Read more...]