With summer in full swing this July, it’s the perfect time for another Thank You Thursday. Today, Elena from Spain, Alessio from Italy, and Julie from Norway share their heartfelt thanks to their host families for making their 2024-25 exchange year so special and full of unforgettable moments. I would like to thank everyone who … Continue reading
Category Archives: Life in the U.S.
Student Spotlight – Tayeba from Bangladesh
This summer, we’re excited to highlight Tayeba from Bangladesh, who spent her 2024–25 school year in Arizona with the Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. From bringing a community garden to life with help from the Hershey Heartwarming Grant to laughing in the kitchen with her host family, … Continue reading
The Love Hosting Brings When You Say Yes!
Ashley from Texas welcomed two students, Seio from Japan and Irakli (Ika) from Georgia, with the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program sponsored by the Department of State, into her family for the 2024-25 school year. Read Ashley’s letter below, along with Irakli’s sweet response to see what she means to them and discover the love hosting can … Continue reading
Thank You Thursday – Maria, Alejandro, Valia
As our 2024–25 students begin to head home, today’s Thank You Thursday features Maria from Italy, Alejandro from Spain, and Valia from Greece with the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program sponsored by the Department of State. Each of them wrote heartfelt notes to their host families, reflecting on the unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and love they experienced … Continue reading
What Our Coordinator Meant to Us – Adele from Utah
Following Adele’s recent spotlight on our blog, we invited some of her former students to reflect on what she meant to them during their exchange year. Below are a few messages that show how much Adele made them feel welcomed, cared for, and part of something truly special! “Ten years ago, Adele was the first … Continue reading
Meet our Community Manager – Adele from Utah
Meet Adele, one of our incredible Community Managers in Utah who brings warmth, heart, and years of experience to the Aspect team. With a background in fostering, adopting, and working with teens in her church, Adele has always had a passion for supporting young people. Since joining Aspect, she has built unforgettable connections with her … Continue reading
100 Hours of Giving Back – Part Three
In the final part of our series, we’re celebrating the last group of incredible exchange students who reached 100 hours of volunteer service. Their commitment, compassion, and connection to their host communities show just how much of a difference one student can make! I have become actively engaged in the local community, managing to get … Continue reading
100 Hours of Giving Back – Part Two
In Part Two of our series, we’re celebrating more amazing exchange students who spent 100 hours giving back. From wrapping gifts for kids in need to supporting veterans and more, these students found meaningful ways to connect with their communities and make a difference. Their time, energy, and heart continue to leave a lasting impact. … Continue reading
100 Hours of Giving Back – Part One
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! One of the … Continue reading
Bringing the World Home by Hosting While Homeschooling
Ever wonder what it’s like to host exchange students while homeschooling your own children? For Tiffney and her family, it’s been a rewarding mix of shared learning, cultural exchange, and spontaneous adventures. This school year, they’re hosting Dilnora from Uzbekistan, who is in Washington State with the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) program sponsored by the … Continue reading