The farewells keep rolling in as more exchange students say goodbyes to their American host families and communities they’ve grown to love over the past school year. These moments are bittersweet, filled with gratitude and appreciation. Each submission we receive tells a story of friendship and sweet memories that will last a lifetime. We look forward to sharing more of these heartfelt goodbyes with you as we continue to celebrate these special moments. Stay tuned for future posts!
Host mom, Ann says, “What a bittersweet farewell! We loved having Fede with us this year. He fit into our crazy family like he had always been there. His family came out his last week here to see all the great things he had described to them about Utah. We ended the year with a dessert table of all the USA favorites. We had 30 family members and 18 of his school friends join us for the send off and to meet his family. It shows how well he was loved here by all. Some of us will see him next year in Italy 💕”
Jolian from Israel, who is part of the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the US Department of State, says “My host family has changed me in a way I never imagined! I have done things with them and experienced things I never did with my own parents. This picture was taken yesterday on our last day of vacation in Georgia. I will never forget how happy they make me!”
Host mom, Kimberly, says, “This past year was amazing and went by too fast. I would totally recommend this program to anyone as this was our 4th year hosting! We have hosted and each year, it becomes harder and harder until we see them again!”
Constance from Ghana, who is part of the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the US Department of State, says, “I could proudly say I had the best exchange experience in Utah! I must admit I struggled at first because I had no friends and wasn’t adapting to things well but things changed after I joined lacrosse, which was my first time playing and I loved it. I made a lot of friends there and met my best friend in my math class. My family and I hike and go riding in our canam a lot during our school breaks. I have been to almost all the national parks in Utah. My favorite is Zion’s National Park. I also enjoy going to young women’s activities almost every Wednesday. It’s a lot of fun and volunteering. I wouldn’t say I have a favorite memory because I enjoyed almost everything I did here. I’d like to say a big thank you to my host family for hosting me because if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be in Utah. I want to thank my host school, community and friends for making my exchange year memorable!”
International Coordinator, Angel, says, “Bittersweet day as two host families and I had to say farewell to two amazing young ladies! Lauryne had to return to France and Letizia returned to Italy. Another great school year for two Aspect ‘graduates’! We sure will miss these wonderful gals! They have changed our lives for the better, and become a part of us! Many blessings and much love ladies.”
Yassien from Egypt, who is part of the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the US Department of State, says, “I gained and learned a lot while making many friends here. I built great relationships with my teachers and my host family – they are amazing!”
Are you interested in making a student a part of your family? We are looking for American host families to welcome a student for the upcoming 2024-25 school year! Check out the profiles of our wonderful students!
