Just Say Yes: Finding Community Abroad

Season 5, Episode 4
Studying abroad is an incredible adventure, but it can sometimes feel a little isolating. So, how do you actually find your community when you’re miles from home? This month, we explore various ways AFSers have connected beyond the classroom.

Season 4 of the AFS Exchange podcast shares stories centered on the profound impact of international exchange, largely through the lens of host families, students, and volunteers. Highlights include glimpses into the lives of host families like Justin and Chad, who’ve cultivated a “global family,” and Keith and Doug, sharing their experiences with a Danish host son, alongside explorations of how “only children” adapt to newfound host siblings. The season also features inspiring individual journeys, such as Kakeru’s story of overcoming barriers and Diarra’s exchange from Senegal to Seattle, while celebrating the vital contributions of AFS volunteers and encapsulating the spirit of connection from the 2024 AFS-USA Summit. Additionally, the season touches on historical and social impacts with a powerful narrative from the Apartheid era and showcases the transformative power of study abroad through the experiences of returnees from various countries.

This season delves into a wide array of inspiring stories and impactful experiences, highlighting the diverse ways AFS programs shape lives and foster global citizenship. The season explores the daily realities of exchange students in the U.S., provides insights into what it means to be an AFS host parent, and examines the broader positive influence of exchange students within school communities. It also features a series dedicated to celebrating 75 years of exchange, spotlighting the transformative journeys of AFS alumni like Jim Kiernan, Dana Rutson and her family, Dave Schrader, and Fen Namwat, alongside discussions on becoming a global citizen in countries like Paraguay. Furthermore, the season shines a light on significant contributions, including conversations with AFS-USA’s Global Awards Winners, the life-changing impact of AFS-USA scholarships, and inspiring accounts from host siblings and families. Memorable episodes also include the unforgettable experience of AFS participants in Cyprus in 1974, the enduring legacy of AFS in individuals like Dr. Rich Besser, the power of global competence in the classroom, and unique stories such as the Hummel family’s journey as TikTok-famous host parents.

Season 2 of the AFS Exchange podcast kicks off by highlighting the valuable skills gained through AFS volunteering, such as intercultural communication and leadership. This season delves into personal narratives, including an interview with Zodi Schwind, an AFS returnee to France, who shares insights from her unique upbringing and time abroad. A historical perspective is offered through an interview with Steve Riford, an AFS Ambulance Driver during WWII, sharing compelling stories from his service. The season also provides practical “Advice from Us to You” for new AFS participants, featuring guidance from AFS-USA staff. Further episodes explore the intergenerational impact of AFS through Nico’s story, whose connection to AFS began with his mother’s exchange. The season also champions the positive influence of exchange students in school communities, featuring interviews with “AFS School Champions” – high school administrators – and celebrates dedicated individuals like Kim from Wisconsin, a “Lifelong AFSer” who has experienced AFS from multiple perspectives as a host sibling, parent, and participant.

This first season of The AFS Exchange podcast lays the groundwork for the series by sharing unique and impactful stories related to the AFS experience. This initial season features a “Lifelong AFSer” like Kim from Wisconsin, who has engaged with AFS as a host sibling, parent, and participant, offering insights and tips. It highlights the value of international exchange within educational settings by interviewing “AFS School Champions” – high school administrators – who welcome exchange students into their communities. The season also delves into personal histories, including an interview with Nico, an AFS returnee whose journey was inspired by his mother’s own exchange, and an interview with Steve Riford, an AFS Ambulance Driver from WWII, providing a glimpse into the organization’s rich past. Practical advice for new participants is shared in “Advice from Us to You,” while “26.2 Miles to France” chronicles the unique experience of an AFS returnee to France.