An Uplifting Exchange Year was a story from a Bangladeshi student, Wassy Tahsan (YES 2023-2024), who was placed in Minnetrista, Minnesota during his exchange year. It was literally an uplifting year for Wassy considering he learned about being a pilot, among other amazing experiences, during his exchange year. It’s a very positive story, and really showcases the breadth of experiences that our participants have. Click here to read more.
Global Village on the Move Grant: She Shapes Tomorrow was a story from Surinamese YES Alum, Julencia Slamet (YES 2016-2017). In 2023, she participated in the Global Villages on the Move program in Istanbul which inspired her to apply for a grant from YES for her own workshop and give back knowledge to her community. The She Shapes Tomorrow Workshop took place May 18th, 2024. Click here to learn more about this very impressive project.
Discovering Myself through Theater was a story about Arfa Haq (YES 2023-2024) from Pakistan who was placed in Mound City, KS during her exchange year. During her exchange year, she participated in her school’s play as a first time actor! Click here to read her very adorable story.
By: Eya Ammar (YES 2023-2024, Tunisia, placed by Greenheart in Eden Prairie, MN)
When I first arrived in the U.S., I found myself in a unique cultural situation living with a Pakistani host family. Through this experience, I have learned to intertwine Tunisian, American, and Pakistani cultures.
My days in America have been a vibrant mix of experiences. I have shared my Tunisian heritage in my school by speaking to the French club, the Spanish club, the Exchange Students club, and the Youth in Government club. I was also able to lead a Model United Nations conference. I have also joined the cross-country team, where I developed a camaraderie with my teammates and have already logged 92 volunteer hours. In the classroom, I have challenged myself in my honors English and chemistry classes.
My host family has enriched my global perspective. We can explore American culture together, and I get to learn about Pakistani culture from them. Enjoying Thanksgiving foods with Pakistani spices is an experience I will never forget! We also get to not only celebrate American holidays, but also Pakistani festivals and events. I have loved engaging in discussions with my host family that span continents, each of us bringing out own unique lens to the world.
In my exchange experience, I am not the only cultural ambassador. My host parents serve as cultural ambassadors as well! They encourage me to explore and embrace their heritage, and they have contributed to my understanding of the world.
Through this journey, I have gained insight into diverse cultures and the universal language of shared values. This stands as a testament to the blend of traditions that can occur when hearts and homes are open to the richness of diversity.