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...]
AYA Alumni Letters: Alif from Indonesia
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...]
When You Hope Goodbye Means “See You Soon!”
Saying goodbye at the end of an exchange term can be very emotional. As much as we're all excited for what will come next, it's hard to go from seeing someone every day to living apart in different countries. As the end of school approaches, many of us are making promises and … [Read more...]
Student Volunteers Gain Skills and Help Others
Margaret E., a Local Coordinator in Arizona, recently organized a volunteer event with several AYA students. The group participated in a community-based activity to benefit Forgasch house, a local shelter for victims of domestic violence providing educational, counseling and … [Read more...]
Exchange Student Pledges to Inspire Change
Nayab is a YES student from Pakistan. She took the time to write the following reflection piece on cultural exchange after attending a mid-year orientation trip to California with a large group of AYA students. Please enjoy Nayab's thoughtful and very moving account of the … [Read more...]
A Very Special AYA Christmas
Sharing holiday traditions can be a fun way to get to know more about another culture. Fatima, a YES student from Lebanon, shared the following about her experiences learning about Christmas and volunteering in her community with her host mom. It's lovely to see people coming … [Read more...]