The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program and the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program are unique cultural exchange programs administered by AYA, that work to improve global understanding between the U.S. and other nations. As the world becomes increasingly … [Read more...]
What is YES?
The Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program provides scholarships for high school students (ages 15-18) from countries with significant Muslim populations to spend up to one academic year in the United States. The Kennedy-Lugar YES Program, sponsored by the U.S. … [Read more...]
AYA’s Got Talent!
Academic Year in America exchange students come to the United States from all over the world with a variety of skills, talents, and hobbies. We wanted to showcase how amazing our students are! We asked them to share a video or picture of themselves dancing, singing, acting, … [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...]
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...]
Cultural Exchange: When Red and Blue Make Purple
For International Education Week, Ecem from Turkey — who is hosted in Illinois — reflects on her exchange year experience and how she's been impacted by and grown from cultural exchange this semester. International education and cultural exchange are important to me, because … [Read more...]