Just as every family has their own holiday traditions, every country has its own unique way of celebrating. Here at Academic Year in America (AYA), our exchange students come from over 50 different countries. Our host families often find that hosting an exchange student makes … [Read more...]
How Hosting an Exchange Student Makes the Holiday Season Better
Festive traditions make the holiday season special for families across the globe. Because of that, adding new traditions makes the holiday season even better. By hosting an exchange student with Academic Year in America (AYA), you’ll add excitement to the season by experiencing … [Read more...]
Giving Thanks for Exchange
Thanksgiving is a time to think about all of the blessings in our lives. The exchange year experience often brings about many new and exciting experiences that both students and host families feel thankful for. Please enjoy these three reflections from members of the AYA … [Read more...]
Holiday Volunteering: A Fun Way to Experience Cultural Firsts!
The holiday season is upon us. For AYA exchange participants, this is a prime time for new experiences that are both meaningful and a whole lot of fun. When we share each other's traditions at these times, we build stronger connections and can learn so much. We are able to try … [Read more...]
A Special Holiday Gift for a Wonderful Host Family
Recently, sixteen-year-old Sophie, an AYA student from Germany, reached out to her Local Coordinator for a way to publicly thank her host family, the Frascht family in South Carolina. She wrote this letter of appreciation, suggesting it would be a perfect Christmas present to her … [Read more...]
A YES Student’s Thanksgiving Story
Arooba is an exchange student from Pakistan, participating with AYA through the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study Program (YES). YES students serve as youth ambassadors of the United States, promoting mutual understanding by forming lasting relationships with their host … [Read more...]