Join me at the 2024 AFS-USA Summit in Dallas, Texas- a weekend packed with connection, inspiration, and a few unexpected surprises. This year’s theme, Connecting Communities, Changing Lives, brought together volunteers, host families, and staff from across the country to share ideas, celebrate accomplishments, and recharge around the AFS mission. From the buzzing Marketplace and heartwarming awards ceremony to insightful sessions and a lively line-dance lesson, the weekend was unforgettable. You’ll hear from award-winning volunteers, learn what fuels their passion for AFS, and catch some fun behind-the-scenes moments- like a surprise reunion and how a random flight conversation turned one dad into a volunteer. Whether you’re already part of the AFS family or just curious about this worldwide community, take a listen to hear about the connections forged this weekend!

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

In this episode, we hear from four recent returnees who participated in AFS programs in France, Japan, Spain, and the Czech Republic. We begin with a deeper conversation with Selina, who spent a transformative summer in France with AFS after feeling the need for a change following the isolation of the COVID lockdown. Her experience abroad motivated her to continue studying internationally, leading her to finish high school in Costa Rica. After Selina’s story, we hear from three scholarship recipients- Morgan, Dahlia, and Emmett- who share their own inspiring experiences studying in Japan, Spain, and Czech Republic. These stories highlight the life-changing impact of study abroad programs, and we’re sharing them as AFS-USA opens applications for 2025 departures.

AFS-USA is dedicated to making study abroad opportunities accessible to students from all backgrounds. With the help of generous donors, AFS Global Citizen Scholarships & Aid provides $1 million annually in merit and need-based scholarships. These scholarships cover partial to full program fees for summer, semester, and yearlong programs, ensuring that more students have the chance to embark on a global learning adventure. Tune in to hear how these young people’s experiences abroad shaped their perspectives and futures!

Guests: Selina, Morgan, Dahlia, and Emmett

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

“So I think the other thing about AFS students is they’re pretty adventurous, and they’re open to trying new things. And when that happens, your family is introduced to so many different things that you normally wouldn’t, whether that is culturally related or just who they are as a student.”

Ever wondered what it’s like to have a new brother every year? Justin and Chad, a couple from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, can tell you! They’ve been hosting AFS students for years, and their 3-year-old son, Everett, has grown up with a global family.

In this episode, they share stories about the impact of hosting on their lives and the lasting bonds they’ve formed with their international sons, and Everett’s brothers. Hear how their family has been introduced to new cultures, experiences, and even the challenges of raising a teenager, years before Everett will become one. While there have been ups and downs, they’ve felt well-supported by AFS throughout their journey. This episode is a testament to the benefits that couples with young children can gain by hosting an exchange student- or seven!

Guests:
Chad Bauman
Justin Dunleavy

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

“And that kind of moment of breakthrough has been helping me for the rest of my life, right? Whenever I face any difficulty or struggles, I know there’s a way to break through by my own efforts. And there are things that I can control.”

Today, we’re going to talk about the power of turning things around- pushing through difficult experiences, realizing when you’re low, and pulling yourself out of the darkness. For Kakeru from Japan, that turning point came when he was studying in California with AFS in 2004-2005.

Now, 20 years later, Kakeru has moved back to the US, earned an MBA, and landed a job in tech in Silicon Valley. In this episode, we not only hear Kakeru’s story but also gain insight from his host mother, Kendis, with whom he’s still in touch after all these years!

After the interview with Kakeru and Kendis, we’ll hear from Amanda Brown, AFS-USA’s Manager of Participant Support and Learning, who will discuss common challenges students face on the program and the resources AFS-USA provides for participants, host families, and volunteers.

Guests:

Kakeru Tsubota
Kendis Heffley
Amanda Brown

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Keith and Doug Byron, a couple from Indiana, welcomed a Danish student into their home in 2022-2023. In this episode, the two of them discuss their initial motivations for hosting, their Danish son’s deep dive into American culture, their family’s love of music and video games, and the rewarding connections made with both their student and the community.

This might sound like a typical conversation with host parents- and honestly, it is! The fact that Keith and Doug are a same-sex couple really doesn’t matter- AFS-USA knows that all types of families can provide a welcoming, caring home for an exchange student. In fact, this past year, 39 same-sex couples hosted students with AFS-USA. No matter what your household looks like, you can learn more about hosting a student this upcoming school year at afsusa.org/host.

Guests: Keith and Doug Byron

In this episode of The AFS Exchange, we share the incredible story of Reed Davis and Ketsi Meka, two friends separated by continents and decades. Ketsi, from South Africa, lived with Reed’s family in Iowa during 1982-83. After Ketsi returned to Apartheid South Africa, they lost touch despite Reed’s repeated efforts to reconnect.

Thirty years later, Reed headed to South Africa for work and ramped up his search for Ketsi. Spoiler alert: they finally reconnect and reflect on the years since Ketsi’s time in Iowa, leading to a creative project together.

Join us to hear about Ketsi’s year in the U.S., his experience moving from Apartheid South Africa to a predominantly white community in Iowa, and the culture shocks he endured after returning back home. This episode shows the lasting power of cultural exchange and how relationships formed can grow even stronger over time. Reed and Ketsi’s story highlights how impactful these connections can be, even decades later.

Guests: Reed Davis and Ketsi Meka

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

AFS students bring a lot to their new families and homes. But what about when they also bring the sibling experience for the first time?

In this episode, we delve into the stories of only children who suddenly found themselves with siblings overnight! Parker from Massachusetts and Reese from New York grew up as only children, but in recent years, their families have embraced hosting AFS students, adding brothers and sisters from around the globe to their lives.

By welcoming AFS students, families not only offer their child a glimpse of life beyond the United States but also introduce them to the joys and challenges of siblinghood.

Join us as we hear from Parker and two of his host siblings, followed by Reese, his mother, and two of his host siblings. What impact has welcoming a new family member had on their lives?

Interested in hosting a student with AFS? Or perhaps you’re an only child yourself and think it’d be cool to have a sibling from a different country? Head to afsusa.org/host to learn more.

Guests: Parker Santerre, Noah, Mariana, Taryn Bunn, Reese Day, Ilona, Saki

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month at AFS-USA, and we’re thrilled to present a special bonus episode dedicated to expressing our gratitude to our incredible AFS volunteers! They truly are the heart of our organization. In this episode, AFS-USA staff have shared heartfelt voice memos, offering shout outs to individual volunteers, teams, advisory groups, and expressing general messages of thanks.

Tune in to this special bonus episode to experience the warmth and appreciation our staff has for the volunteers who make AFS’s mission a reality. Are you interested in becoming an AFS-USA volunteer? Visit afsusa.org/volunteer to get started!

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Katherine, a young AFS-USA volunteer from California, is deeply passionate about activism. In 2023, she engaged in AFS-USA’s Youth Ambassador Sustainability Project, a 7-week online leadership course for emerging leaders. During this program, she established a partnership with the Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach, California. Katherine shares practical advice for aspiring changemakers eager to embark on their own journey toward affecting change.

In this episode, we delve into global perspectives and explore Taiwan. Katherine also took part in the U.S. Department of State’s National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) program in Taipei during the summer of 2023. This experience intensified her commitment to driving change. She emphasizes the significance of international collaboration in achieving sustainability, advocating for mutual understanding, acceptance of differences, and embracing diverse perspectives.

Guest:
Katherine Verrando

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

March is host family appreciation month at AFS-USA – a huge shoutout to all AFS host families! This month, we’re excited to share an interview featuring a host mother-daughter pair from Washington: Jutta and Diarra.

Diarra from Senegal is having a truly culture-rich year in Seattle with the Mackensen-von Stieglitz family, who moved from Germany to the U.S. about 20 years ago. Alongside trying out new activities like ice skating, bowling, and indulging in breakfast burritos, Diarra is immersing herself in German culture and language.

In this episode we hear about Diarra’s year so far in the U.S., and how she has grown. We also hear Jutta share insights into her family’s rich cultural history and the reasons behind their decision to host a student this year.

The story of Diarra and Jutta is just one among the hundreds of AFS families across the U.S. this year. A heartfelt thank you to all AFS host families, both past and present. Interested in becoming a future AFS host family? Check out afsusa.org/host for more information.

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

In Season 3 of the AFS Exchange Podcast, we’ve had the privilege of engaging with 28 guests across 12 episodes, each sharing impactful stories about how AFS has shaped their lives. To cap it off, we’re excited to share a special episode which showcases some of the season’s standout moments. And to mix it up, we’ve included amusing clips that didn’t make the final edits, and some cultural deep dives from the season! You’ll also hear from our podcast host Kate about the history of the show and some behind-the-scenes moments.

Season 4 will be launching soon – until then, check out any of the previous 28 episodes of the AFS Exchange!

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Mert Özer from Türkiye and Ann Ford from New Jersey are halfway through their year together as AFS exchange student and host mother. Living in a home with two very active dogs, they share an appreciation for music.

From afar, they may seem like a unique pair. Mert is blind and Ann was born with a hearing impairment. But this has not stopped them from forming a close relationship. 

Tune in to hear about Mert’s experience in New Jersey, and the new experiences he has had on his AFS program- including dancing, living with dogs, and attending shows at Madison Square Garden!Mert is a participant on the U.S. Department of State’s Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study Program (YES Program) which partners with Mobility International USA (MIUSA) to support exchange students living with disabilities. 

Guests: Mert Özer and Ann Ford

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

YES Program: www.yesprograms.org

MIUSA: www.miusa.org

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Each AFS participant’s experience on program varies, but Deb Moon and Juliette Cosh’s summer in Cyprus stands out as truly unique.

Deb and Juliette, along with five other AFS students, were on this small island in 1974 when the Greek Cypriot military supported a coup to overthrow the country’s president. A few days later, the northern part of the country was invaded by the Turkish. Deb and Juliette were then evacuated to Lebanon.

In this episode we’ll explore the typical questions about AFS experiences, such as host families and skills gained. However, the focus will be on their gripping experience fleeing Cyprus during a period of uncertainty. It was during this tumult that they developed a friendship, one that has persisted over the years.

Nearly five decades later, Deb and Juliette remain close friends, having met up multiple times. Most recently, they reunited in Utah during the summer with another participant from the Cyprus program, who was evacuated to England.

Tune in to this episode to hear about the journey these two AFSers had in Cyprus and Lebanon, and discover how this unforgettable experience ignited a lifelong friendship that has endured through the decades.

Guests:
Deb Moon
Juliette Cosh

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Celebrate International Education Week with us as we chat with two dynamic educators dedicated to instilling global competence in their classrooms. In this episode, we explore the significance of global competence through the experiences of Hannah Arrington from Bellaire High School in Houston, TX, and Ellen Ericson from Mahomet-Seymour High School in Mahomet, IL.

Both Hannah and Ellen, seasoned travelers and advocates for global learning, are eager to share their insights with students, regardless of their academic focus. AFS has played a crucial role in supporting their mission.

Join us as we delve into the adventures abroad that shaped Hannah and Ellen, discover their paths into education, and understand the pivotal role global competence education plays in their classrooms. Learn how both educators are actively participating in the AFS Global Up Americas virtual exchange program, enhancing their teaching skills and connecting their students with counterparts in Mexico or Colombia. Tune in for inspiring stories and witness their shared commitment, in collaboration with AFS, to cultivating global citizens in the classroom.

Guests: Hannah Arrington and Ellen Ericson

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Tatyana Sergeyeva, a Russian cultural exchange advocate, shares her inspiring journey as an AFS exchange student to Iowa in the early ’90s during the end of the Cold War and the fall of the Soviet Union. She credits her AFS experience with helping her develop essential skills like empathy, confidence, and language fluency, which have shaped her diverse career and global outlook.

Tatyana, who now lives in Chicago, has worked in a variety of industries, including academia, e-learning, publishing, international consulting, and financial services. She’s also a passionate language learner, having studied Spanish, French, Italian, and Japanese.

Join us as we explore Tatyana’s journey and the lasting impact of her AFS experience on her personal and professional life. Learn how she’s used her skills and values to build bridges across cultures and make a positive impact on the world.

Guest: Tatyana Sergeyeva

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Before Dr. Richard Besser started his notable professional career, he was an AFS student in Australia. Since then, he has served as the Acting Director of the CDC, the Chief Health and Medical Editor for ABC News, and held many other impressive positions. Today, he is the President and CEO of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, a prominent philanthropic organization dedicated to shaping the landscape of health and healthcare in the U.S.

Throughout his expansive and varied career, the skills he gained during his AFS experience have proven instrumental. From public speaking to fostering curiosity and adaptability, AFS played a pivotal role in his success.

In this interview, we will hear about Rich’s experience in Australia, the lessons he learned, and how he has applied them to his work throughout the years. We’ll also delve into the issue of health inequity in America and discover how the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is diligently working to create meaningful change.

Guests: Dr. Rich Besser

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

The Hummel family has found a unique way to spread the word about the host parent experience: TikTok! With over 125,000 followers at their account @Josiewhite201, they have successfully shared with the world the value that an exchange student can bring to their family and community.

Joselyn and Devin Hummel have hosted two AFS exchange students and are eagerly awaiting their third. During the early days of their second student’s year in Missouri, Joselyn stumbled upon TikTok and was inspired to share their experiences on the platform. Over the past year, they have posted all sorts of clips, ranging from funny and quirky to heartwarming and touching.

In this episode, Joselyn and Devin will share their journey of becoming AFS host parents, the invaluable lessons they’ve learned along the way, and the insightful advice they have for potential host parents. They will also talk about their TikTok experience and how they’ve utilized the platform to reach an impressive community, all while spreading the importance and value of intercultural exchange.

Guests: Joselyn Hummel & Devin Hummel

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

“Your journey with AFS starts, but it never ends, because it will be with you for the rest of your life.” If you have ever studied abroad with AFS – or hosted an AFS student – you can probably relate to this! In the episode, Sarah and Tommaso share how their lives have been profoundly shaped by AFS. Discover how AFS fosters a lifelong connection to global citizenship and hear firsthand accounts of personal and professional growth.

Sarah has been a host sister to a girl from Brazil, a Peace Corps volunteer in Moldova, and AFS staff member. Tommaso from Italy started as an AFS exchange student in Houston, then became an AFS volunteer after his program. He is currently back in the US, interning at AFS-USA. These stories exemplify the lasting impact of cultural exchange. This is the #AFSeffect!

Guests:
Sarah Radermacher
Tommaso Casavecchi

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Dr. Mitch Besser’s experience in South Africa began on his AFS program in the early 1970s, in the middle of the era of apartheid. 50 years later, his strong connection to the country remains. 

Mitch’s AFS program enabled him to break free from the limitations of his small-town upbringing and explore new possibilities, ultimately leading him to establish mothers2mothers, an organization that empowers women living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa. After 22 years, mothers2mothers has created nearly 12,000 jobs for women living with HIV and reached more than 15 million people with critical health services.

Check out this episode to learn more about the life changing work that AFSers are doing all over the world, all with the goal to #PassPeaceForward. 

Guests: Dr. Mitch Besser

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

You don’t need to go abroad for an entire year to be impacted by international exchange. In this episode, we explore the transformative power of short-term study abroad programs for high school students via 3 interviews with former participants to Spain in 2019.

They share their memories and insights on living with host families, learning Spanish, and exploring the culture and history of Valladolid. Through their stories, we discover how just two weeks outside of the U.S. can broaden one’s perspective, spark a lifelong passion for language and culture, and inspire future academic and career goals. Tune in to hear about the impact of short-term study abroad and learn about scholarship opportunities for AFS programs.

Guests: Amanah Qureshi, Ryan Rodriguez, Taylor Tendall

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Hosting an exchange student can bring a variety of benefits to host families, especially those with children, as it can change the way children perceive and interact with the world. In this episode we hear from several guests who have been either host siblings or host families with AFS-USA. Discover the benefits that hosting an exchange student can bring to your family, including teaching your children patience, compassion, and curiosity. Hear from our guests about their experiences bonding with young people from other cultures and the lasting impact it had on them. 

We will hear from two host fathers and their son about their experience hosting a student from Germany last year. Next, we will hear from a former AFS-USA student from Norway about his time becoming an older brother. We will then talk to one of his host brothers in the U.S. about his experiences having multiple host brothers from different countries as he was growing up. 

Learn more about hosting and meet the types of students you could welcome at www.afsusa.org/host.

Guests: Jim Walker, Ethan Taylor, Juan Carlos Walker, Erik Knutsen, Chris Kowalski

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Participating in an exchange program is an opportunity to have many new experiences… like finding yourself with new siblings! Living with host siblings can really add another dimension to an exchange program for a participant.

From the point of view of the host family, this experience can help open their child’s eyes to a world beyond their own. These exchanges allow host siblings of any age to begin to understand that despite living thousands of miles apart and speaking different languages, we have far more in common than we realize.

In this episode we hear from Erika from Norway and her host sister Jessica. Erika is in the middle of her exchange year in Ohio. Our second interview is a conversation with former host sister Janne Debes, who is still close with her Japanese host sister after more than 50 years.

Guests:
Erika
Jessica
Janne Debes

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Since 2010, Faces of America has been AFS-USA’s premier diversity scholarship program, empowering high school students with essential global skills and a passion for making a difference.

Faces of America embraces the ideals of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility by partnering with Community based Organizations (CBOs), family foundations, individual donors, AFS-USA alums, and others.

This episode includes interviews with volunteers and staff who work with two CBOs: The Dean’s Future Scholars Program in Reno, Nevada and the QUEST Scholarship Fund in St. Louis, Missouri. We will learn how the opportunity to study abroad has impacted the lives of students in their communities, and why it is so important to support these programs. 

Learn more about Faces of America at www.afsusa.org/faces-of-america

Guests: Tara Hofmann, Lynn Whetstone, Victor Garcia, Suzanne Sebert

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Educator Resources: www.afsusa.org/educators

Contact us: [email protected]

Jim Kiernan’s AFS experience in Germany in 1961 was an eye-opener. He had never left the northeast United States, but after just a summer in Germany he returned home with a strong desire to learn more about the world and, in his words, “live more.” 

In this episode, we hear about Jim’s AFS experience, his Fulbright program in Brazil, and his extensive professional career with the international law firm Debevoise & Plimpton. After a few years in New York, Jim moved to France to help build up the firm’s European practice. Jim is now retired and splits his time between London and Washington DC.

Jim’s path is a clear example of how AFS can influence your professional and personal life. In AFS’s 75 year history, there are so many participants whose lives have been guided by their experiences with AFS. 

In honor of AFS’s 75th anniversary, The AFS Exchange is releasing 4 episodes this month! That’s 4 times the stories of the impact AFS has had over the years. 

Guest: Jim Kiernan 

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Contact us: [email protected]

This episode focused on the impact of AFS on one family in particular – Dana, Camille, Ricardo, and Yasemin. Dana’s mother, Camille, hosted Ricardo from Brazil in 1974. A few years later, Dana went to Turkey with AFS-USA. Yasemin was her host sister, and despite having no common language at the time, they two quickly became friends and found other ways to communicate. We all got together to hear about the role AFS has played in their lives and the relationships they still share. In AFS’s 75-year history, the impact that AFS has had on the lives of its participants is immeasurable. That’s the #AFSeffect.

Guests: Dana Rutson, Camille Linen, Ricardo Ferriera, Yasemin Modler

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad: afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer: afsusa.org/volunteer

Host: afsusa.org/host

Contact us: [email protected]

After Dave Schrader’s summer in Austria with AFS, he returned back to the US eager to help future exchange students through their programs. He has led orientations for hundreds of departing US students and incoming international students over the years. In this episode, we learn more about these orientations and why they are so important to ensure that students have a great program. Dave also shares about his experience in Austria, and the long relationship he continues to have with his host family.

In honor of AFS’s 75th anniversary, The AFS Exchange is releasing 4 episodes this month! That’s 4 times the stories of the impact AFS has had over the years.

Guests: Dave Schrader, Dona Goede, Martha Friend

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad: afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer: afsusa.org/volunteer

Host: afsusa.org/host

Contact us: [email protected]

6 years ago, Fen left Bangkok, Thailand to begin his AFS year outside of Houston, Texas. In this episode, Fen shares his insights on his exchange year with 6 years’ worth of distance. He shares the skills he took away from his time in the US, and we hear his advice for future exchange students.

In honor of AFS’s 75th anniversary, The AFS Exchange is releasing 4 episodes this month! 

Guest: Fen Namwat

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Contact us: [email protected]

In honor of International Education week, The AFS Exchange brings you conversations with the awardees of AFS-USA’s 2022 Global Awards! These awardees were recognized earlier this year for their commitment to helping the next generation achieve global and intercultural competence. 

We hear from Global Educator Award winner Josh Amstuz from Cincinnati, Ohio about how he became interested in international education after a trip to Madrid with his father. We learn more about project-based learning and his role at the Academy of Global Studies at Winton Woods High School.

The winner of the Global School Award was Oconomowoc High School in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin. Carrie Schultz, Danielle Chaussée, and Jason Curtis share about the value of highlighting global competence in their school. They also discuss the benefits of welcoming multiple AFS students each year, giving their students the ability to learn about other cultures without traveling themselves. The impact AFSers can have on a school community is really far-reaching- no airplane required! That’s the #AFSeffect!

Guests: Josh Amstutz, Carrie Schultz, Danielle Chaussée, Jason Curtis

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Volunteer with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/volunteer

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Contact us: [email protected]

The first time that Linda took an airplane was at age 17, heading to her AFS Program in Paraguay. Growing up in small-town Missouri, she was surprised her parents even let her go! But years later, her valuable experiences in Paraguay have continued to have an impact on her life and those around her. AFS’s goal: To build global citizens who can pass peace forward, creating a more just and peaceful world. That’s the #AFSEffect. 

Guest: Linda Shepard Salzer

Study Abroad with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/study-abroad

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Contact us: [email protected]

In this episode we hear from three of the 1000+ students that AFS-USA welcomed for the 2021-22 school year. Samira from Germany, Toby from Sweden, and Mira from Austria share about their host families, schools, and what life is like for a teenager in the U.S. These three teenagers have gained confidence, maturity, and problem-solving skills during their AFS program.

They have also become cultural ambassadors, sharing their home culture with their communities in the U.S. And once they’re back home? They will be Passing Peace Forward, spreading messages of intercultural understanding across typical divides, to create a more just and peaceful world. That’s the #AFSEffect.

Guests: Samira Saduzei, Toby Bern, Paul Krzyzaniak, Mira Hargassner

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

What does it mean to be an AFS Host Parent? It’s more than providing a bed and meals. As an AFS Host Family, you’ll welcome someone new into your home, share your everyday lives with them, and grow as you get to know each other and share your cultural perspectives. You’ll be surprised at how much you learn about yourself, your family, and community.

This episode includes three great conversations with host parents in the D.C. and Dallas metro areas. Listen to learn more about their motivations and expectations, and how bringing students into their homes has benefitted their families and themselves.

Guests: Sheri Belton-Gonzalez, Dallas; Rodney Warren, Dallas; Sarah Clapp, DC

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Host with AFS-USA: www.afsusa.org/host

Contact us: [email protected]

Welcoming exchange students into your classroom can benefit the entire school community! In this episode, we hear from AFS students in Indiana and Washington. They discuss their experiences as US high school students: activities they’ve been involved in, how things are different from home, and the positive impact of supportive teachers.

We also get the perspective of the teachers who work with these students. How have AFS students shared their culture and unique perspective in school, providing learning opportunities for their peers?

Guests: Medyen Jubran, Abbas Mortada, Mark Liepe, Brandi Asher (East Noble High School, Kendallville, IN);  Sai Charan Tharmani and Annie DeGroot (Rainier Beach High School, Seattle, WA)

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study Program (YES): www.yesprograms.org

Welcome back to The AFS Exchange for Season 2! As an AFS volunteer, you gain skills that are valuable outside of AFS. Intercultural communication, leadership, marketing, event planning, content creation, project management, and more. In this episode we hear from 3 AFS volunteers who are all at points of transition in their lives. How has their volunteer experience equipped them with valuable skills to move confidently forward?

Guests: Chelsea Kidd, Chloe Marette, Anna Harris
Volunteer with AFS-USA: [email protected]

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

This episode features an interview with Zodi Schwind, an AFS returnee who studied in France. We chat about her unique upbringing on a hospital ship off the coast of West Africa, her family, and her takeaways from her time abroad. We also learn how she fundraised $10,000 for her program in France by running a marathon! PS – she also won in her age category!

Guest: Zodi Schwind

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

This episode starts out with a brief history of the American Field Service. Next, we hear from Steve Riford, one of the AFS Ambulance Drivers during WWII. Steve shares stories of his time with the American Field Service- from boat rides and bagpipes to loud cannons and lost windshield wipers. After volunteering with AFS, Steve became a member of the New York State Assembly and the New York State Senate.

Guest: Steve Riford, WWII AFS Ambulance Driver

AFS Archives: afs.org/archives

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

This episode provides advice for AFS participants beginning their program abroad. AFS-USA staff were surveyed with two questions: What piece of advice would you have for new participants, and what’s something that surprised you about your time abroad? 

We will hear from staff who studied abroad in Malaysia, Argentina, Uzbekistan, France, Australia, Russia, Germany, and more! While this advice is geared for study abroad participants, it is also relevant to anyone involved with AFS this fall. Major themes? Be open-minded, be flexible, and don’t be afraid to talk to new people!

Guests: Tara Hofmann (AFS-USA President and CEO), Akemi Akaiwa, Julie Ball, Keri Dooley, Libby Gartland, Melvin Harmon, Scott Hume, Paula Zhang

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

This episode features an interview with Nico, an AFS alum from the U.S. who was first involved with AFS thanks to his mother, an AFS exchange student to the U.S. from Italy. We’ll hear from Nico about his experiences as an AFS participant in Egypt, AFS volunteer traditions in other countries, and how you can always come back as an AFS volunteer, even if you took some time off!

Guest: Nico Borbely
Mini Segment Guests: Patricia Chery, Alicia Chery

AFScast Paraguay can be found on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

In this episode high school administrators from Ohio, West Virginia, and California provide insight about the value of welcoming AFS international exchange students into their school communities. We’ll hear about football games, hallway stampedes, lunchroom awkwardness, and… High School Musical? 

Guests:
Ben McMurray, Ottawa Hills Junior/Senior High School (OH)
TJ Connor, Keyser High School (WV)
Karen Gordon, Valley Charter High School (CA)

Kristján Gislason on Instagram: @slidingthrough
Kennedy Lugar YES Program: yesprograms.org 

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.

In this episode, we chat with Kim from Wisconsin. Kim has been a host sibling, host parent, study abroad participant, and sending parent. Kim shares tips for host parents and discusses how she brings intercultural education into the preschool classroom. We also hear from a volunteer with AFS Brazil about the history of the Portuguese language in Brazil.  

Guest: Kim Thompson
Brazilian Portuguese history read by: Júlia Herszenhut
AFScast Brasil on Instagram: @afscastbrasil 

Click here to access a full transcript of this episode or to listen on a different platform.