Life in the U.S. / Thank You Thursdays

Thank You Thursday – Ajia from Pakistan

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Happy Thank You Thursday! We’re celebrating by sharing a sweet letter written by Ajia from Pakistan, who is spending the 2025-26 school year in Utah, with the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the US Department of State. Ajia tells us about her life-changing experience with a host family who became her second home.

Ajia from Pakistan (left) smiling with her happy host family, including host dad Derek (right) in Utah

I don’t even know where to start, because “thank you” feels too small for everything you’ve done for me.

From the very first day I came to Utah, you made me feel like I was part of your family. I was nervous and unsure, but you made everything feel like home. It’s not just the big things I’ll remember, but the little moments that meant the most: sitting together for dinners, laughing during board games, going on trips, and celebrating both Christmas and Eid. Those moments made this experience so special.

Ajia from Pakistan (left) with her host family celebrating culture and wearing traditional clothing during Eid in Utah

One moment I will always remember is my host dad fasting with me during Ramadan. That meant so much to me and showed me how deeply you care. Seeing the ocean was also one of my biggest dreams, and I still can’t believe I got to experience it with you on our Oregon trip. It’s a memory I will carry with me forever.

My host dad, you are very special to me. I lost my dad when I was young, and something always felt missing in my life. Being here changed that. You cared for me, supported me, and loved me like your own daughter, and that means more than I can ever explain. My host mom, thank you for your kindness, patience, and for always making me feel understood and at home.

Ajia from Pakistan excitedly sees the ocean for the first time while making memories with her host family

Myles, Jamie, and Hazel, thank you for being such amazing host siblings. You made my days happier and brighter. To my friend, Julie, thank you for your kindness and joy. You made my exchange year so much more fun and gave me amazing experiences.

Thank you, Aspect Foundation, for giving me an amazing home away from home. I could have never asked for a better family. And thank you, Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program for giving me this life-changing opportunity.

Ajia from Pakistan (center) snow tubing with her host family in Utah

This exchange year changed me so much. It helped me grow as a person, become more independent, and learn so many things I never thought I could. No matter where I go, I’ll always carry this love and these lessons with me. I will always be grateful for this home, this family, and this year that changed my life.

Her host dad, Derek, also shared his perspective in “A Dad’s Perspective on Hosting an Exchange Student.” Click to read more!

Are you interested in making a student like Ajia 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! New profiles go online every Thursday!