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Host Family of the Year Runner-Up: The Nix Family in Illinois

June 1, 2020 AYA 2 Comments

Exchange student Alisha from Austria with her host family in Illinois | Academic Year in America (AYA)

Alisha from Austria feels like she hit the jackpot with her host family in Illinois, which is why she felt they were the perfect nominees for our Host Family of the Year awards. Named a runner-up, the Nix Family gave her the exchange year experience of a lifetime. Learn more … [Read more...]

Host Families austria, host family, host family of the year, illinois

Meet the AYA 2019-20 Host Family of the Year!

May 27, 2020 AYA Leave a Comment

At the end of each school year, Academic Year in America (AYA) international high school exchange students and their Local Coordinators across the United States take the time to nominate host families for the honor of AYA Host Family of the Year. In addition to a sincere … [Read more...]

Host Families FLEX Program, host family, host family of the year, moldova, south carolina

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

March 19, 2020 AYA 1 Comment

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

Host Families Share What They LOVE About Hosting an Exchange Student

February 13, 2020 AYA Leave a Comment

Family hosting an exchange student during the holidays | Academic Year in America (AYA)

In the spirit of Valentine's Day, we asked some of our host families what they LOVE about hosting an exchange student with AYA! Check out these heartwarming responses from host families across the country: Host Mom Kate on Hosting an Exchange Student in Illinois: This … [Read more...]

Host Families cultural exchange, exchange students, host family, valentine's day

Reflections from a Repeat Host Mom

November 1, 2019 AYA Blog Leave a Comment

Four-time host mom Amy reflects on the life-changing experience of hosting an international exchange student.

The following is a beautiful submission from AYA host mom Amy from Maine. Amy is currently hosting her fourth exchange student! When Amy first submitted her host family application, she did not know where the journey would take her family. Hosting exchange students for multiple … [Read more...]

Host Families Academic Year in America, German exchange students, High school exchange, host family, host mom

Julia from Germany Shows Her Love for the Litzburg Family!

September 23, 2019 AYA Blog Leave a Comment

Julia from Germany Shows Her Love for the Litzburg Family!

Her exchange year may have ended, but Julia, an Academic Year in America high school exchange student from Germany, will cherish her memories of her year abroad for years to come, thanks in large part to the Litzburg family. This caring bunch showed their love and encouragement … [Read more...]

Host Families, Students Academic Year in America, high school exchange in New York, host family, host sibling, student stories

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About AYA

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AYA is sponsored by the American Institute For Foreign Study (AIFS) Foundation, a not-for-profit organization founded in 1967. Its mission is to promote worldwide understanding through cultural exchange. Learn more >

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Recent Posts

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  • German Exchange Student Shares Gratitude for Host Family in Oregon
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  • Why Host an Exchange Student: 5 Major Benefits 
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