Hear it from our students / Life in the U.S.

100 Hours of Giving Back – Part One

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What does it look like to spend 100 hours helping others? For these incredible exchange students, it meant caring for animals, supporting seniors, volunteering at church, and more. Their kindness and dedication brought them closer to their host communities and left a lasting impact with every hour. Stay tuned for Part Two!

Malahat from Azerbaijan with a furry friend while volunteering at Animal Allies Society in Texas

One of the most meaningful parts of my exchange year was volunteering. It helped me grow as a leader and introduced me to many of my closest friends. I encourage every exchange student to step out of their comfort zone to learn, grow, and create a positive impact on their community.

– Malahat from Azerbaijan, part of the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program sponsored by the Department of State

Szymon from Poland making a difference while volunteering at Habitat for Humanity in Colorado

Volunteering for me as a FLEX participant meant a lot. At first, it was one of my ways to say “thank you” to the community for giving me the opportunity to spend this wonderful year in the United States. I felt like spending my time on others in need was at least something I could do to show my gratitude.

Later on, and very quickly, it also turned into a good way to bond with and take care of my community here. I met a lot of interesting and nice people with whom I helped many in need and, in the meantime, exchanged my culture. The time that I spent volunteering here also helped me with my personal growth. I noticed that big changes can sometimes be made by small actions. Volunteering here showed me the importance of being engaged, of taking action, and caring. These are lessons I will carry with me long after the program ends.

– Szymon from Poland, part of the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program sponsored by the Department of State

Iqra from Pakistan brings smiles and treats to residents at a local nursing home in Utah

Volunteering gave me a sense of fulfillment and the chance to make a positive impact on my community!

– Iqra from Pakistan, part of the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the US Department of State

Veriko from Georgia volunteering at a local church in Washington State


Volunteering has been an important part of my exchange year. Through every small act, I discovered the power of kindness and realized that even the tiniest efforts can lead to meaningful change.

– Veriko from Georgia, part of the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program

Learn about even more students who volunteered over 100 hours in Part 2 and Part 3! 

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 2025-26 school year! Check out the profiles of our wonderful students!