At the end of the academic school year, we ask current AFS students who are studying abroad to share the most beautiful snapshots from their exchange experience with us. This provides them with the opportunity to reflect on their time living within another culture, appreciate the beauty of their host country, and showcase their experience. This year, we received many wonderful submissions from around the globe – some of which will be included in our 2026 AFS Study Abroad Calendar! Below are the photos we’ve chosen and some testimonials from the students.
Enzo A. from California, hosted in Switzerland
“It’s been an amazing experience so far! I go to school in Zurich, and I live in a small town a little bit south of the city. It’s been incredible to see how different life is here compared to at home.”
Christopher L. from Michigan, hosted in Japan
Joy A., hosted in India
“Monkeys swinging on tree branches; cows on every street corner; rickshaws honking to navigate the busy streets. Without even realizing it, events formerly unimaginable became daily occurrences that I grew used to. When coming to India, no one warned me that I would fall in love with the food, culture, people, and way of life. Soon, “hi” was replaced by “namaste” and I found myself craving shahi paneer rather than pizza. Looking back, the most beautiful part of my exchange year was how the people I met, the language I learned, and the knowledge I acquired will continue to have an impact on me for the rest of my life. In just a year, India became my home. Not just a place to visit again in the future, but a home – a place where family is, where my friends are – where a piece of my heart will always remain. I am forever grateful for all the memories and the amazing people I’ve met along the way. Until next time.” 
Kylie K. from California, hosted in Norway
Sebastian T. from Miami, hosted in Portugal
Unique Z. from New York, hosted in Germany
Sara C. from California, hosted in Japan
Vanessa T. from New York, hosted in Germany
Payton S. from Ohio, hosted in France
“Living in France has changed me by growing through new adventures, being independent and even through the struggles. Studying abroad isn’t always butterflies and rainbows, but it ultimately comes down to your perspective throughout the journey. Throughout the year I have learned a totally new culture which has helped me have a different perspective on life in general by seeing how others live. Not only does this experience bring new adventures, but it brings new people and a new family. At the end of this you have memories from your host country, but also friends and family all over the world. Studying abroad brought more than I expected and was such a blessing.” 
Elsa S. from Vermont, hosted in Norway
Athena W. from Wisconsin, hosted in France
“France has allowed me to reflect on my life and food choices. I’m blessed to be in the most beautiful city, Annecy, with my beautiful host family.” 
Are you ready to embark on your own once-in-a-lifetime journey abroad? Start browsing programs today at afsusa.org/study-abroad.
You can order an AFS Study Abroad Calendar for free when it becomes available at afsusa.org/merchandise.