Several of last year's AYA students took some time to write letters to the upcoming class of high school exchange students, which we will continue to share throughout the summer months. They wrote about their reflections, advice and best wishes to help next year's group get the … [Read more...]
Goodbyes Are Never Easy But Family Is Forever
Regenia, a Local Coordinator from Ohio, shares this heartfelt message about hosting international students and saying goodbye to her beloved Moroccan daughter Meriem, an AYA exchange student. I will keep this brief. Today is a hard day for our family and for Meriem. Today was … [Read more...]
Announcing the AYA Host Family of the Year!
Each year, AYA students and Local Coordinators (LCs) nominate host families across the country for the honor of Host Family of the Year. These families open their hearts and homes to show international high school students the very best of American culture and hospitality. … [Read more...]
AYA Student Athletes Shine
As Americans, we may take our sports culture for granted, but this is actually a fascinating aspect of life in the U.S. for many visiting students. The games we play, the clubs we form, and the sports we compete in can be pretty different from the norms in other countries. Some … [Read more...]
Proud Local Coordinator Highlights Students Accomplishments
Here's a happy update from Local Coordinator Kelly B. in Kansas: I have more good news about a couple of AYA students with another great accomplishment for the Rossville Dawgs. They are regional champions and on their way to the State Games with the varsity softball … [Read more...]
#ThrowbackThursday: YES Student Enjoys Busy Year of Opportunities
As current students are wrapping up the year at high school's across the country, let's take a look back about a year ago to a submission from a very special student. Imran from Bangladesh took time out of his busy schedule to write the following essay about his diverse … [Read more...]