Academic Year in America (AYA) is getting ready to welcome their 2015-2016 students this August for their Student Arrival Orientations in New York City. AYA staff from the National Office will be greeting students along with AYA Local Coordinators. Student Arrival Orientations are full of first experiences for everyone and AYA is so thankful they get to share these moments with upcoming students and staff.
“The Orientation days are fun and very helpful. It’s great to meet other exchange students on the program and talk to them before their departures. You also get to visit a great city and prepare for your exchange year with your host family. It was truly amazing,” – AYA student, Arrival Orientation, 2013.
Check out staff from the AYA National Office welcoming our 2015-2016 students! And learn what they had to share about participating in Student Arrival Orientation.
“There is nothing like seeing our students for the first time when they arrive in the U.S. We are fortunate to be part of their experience and make their welcome to the U.S. as comfortable and exciting as possible. Our goal is to prepare our students for the upcoming year while giving them the opportunity to experience America’s most exciting city,” said Lisa, AYA Grant and Orientation Manager.
“Every year we strive to improve and grow the content of orientation including new games and activities in the workshops, as well as different sights and tours in NYC. Arrival Orientation is truly a great way for our kids to kick-off their time in the U.S. and head into the year with excitement, preparation, and direction,” said Ginny, AYA Student Support.
Every year is just as exciting as the last one, as new and former host families are preparing to welcome a new family member into their home. Our Local Coordinators are busy helping host families, providing guidance and support to make it a smooth transition for all. We are all very excited to welcome our 2015-2016 students and we wish them a successful academic year full of new opportunities!
“I love being a part of orientation because it always helps bring the program to life for me time and time again. It’s always a wonderful reminder of why AYA is so important for these students and the global community”, said Sarah, AYA Senior Field Staff & Training Administrator.
If you would like to be a part of this exciting journey, it’s not too late! Learn more about hosting an AYA student today! Or support our host families and students by becoming a Local Coordinator in your community. Are you hosting or welcoming a student this year? Send your photos to ayablog@aifs.org or share with us your first experiences on Facebook and use #AYAExchangeStories. We want to be a part of your new adventure in America!
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