My name is Sharona Raghoebir, and I had the privilege of being a YES exchange student from Suriname to New Jersey in 2017–2018. Looking back, it is almost impossible to put into words just how deeply the program has shaped me, not only as a student, but as a human being.
When I first arrived in the U.S., I was welcomed with open arms by my host mom, who became a true second mother to me. She gave me a home filled with love, patience, and encouragement. She showed me the beauty of kindness without borders, and her love still inspires me today. The bonds I created during that year with my host mom, my school, and my community, continue to live in my heart today. They taught me that family is not only who you are born to, but also who embraces you with love and kindness across borders.
One memory I will always carry with me is International Education Week. I was given the chance to do presentations about Suriname my country, our food, our music, and our traditions. I remember feeling nervous, unsure if anyone would be interested in a small country they had never heard of. But as I started sharing, I saw the excitement in my classmates’ eyes. They asked questions and by the end of the day, many told me how amazed they were to learn about my culture. It is not just about us learning from America, but also about America learning from us.
The YES program also gave me something I could never have gained on my own: the chance to see the world through new eyes. It was more than just learning a different culture, it was about becoming a bridge between people, religions, and traditions. I came back home with a stronger sense of empathy, resilience, and global responsibility. And I know I am not the only one. Every YES alumn carries these values back to their communities, where they continue to inspire.
To imagine that this life-changing program will be canceled is heartbreaking. The world needs the YES program now more than ever. Programs like this remind us that friendship, respect, and compassion are stronger than fear. They open hearts, create lifelong connections, and prove that peace begins with people willing to listen and learn from one another.
I believe with all my heart that the YES program is not just an exchange, it is a movement of love, hope, and unity. Please, let us keep it alive, so that future generations of students can discover the same lessons, joy, and growth that I was so blessed to experience.
YES gave me more than a year abroad, it gave me a family, a community, and a lifelong mission to build bridges across cultures. For that, I will always be grateful.
With love and gratitude,
Sharona Raghoebir
YES Alumna 2017–2018, Suriname