AFS USA

09/01/2026

In the next video featuring Iliana’s AFS experience in China, she shares advice and insights for students considering studying abroad. 💬🌎

It can be hard to decide where you want to go abroad, because we have nearly 50 countries to choose from! Iliana discusses why she chose China, how she’s prioritized language practice, and the importance of trying everything.

✈ We’ll continue next week with more from Iliana, so for now, you can learn more about AFS-USA study abroad opportunities at afsusa.org/study-abroad!

08/27/2026

A new adventure in the United States awaits a student from Iceland as they begin their student exchange via AFS-USA in Indiana.

08/27/2026

As hosted students arrive in the U.S., we’re setting our eyes on an exciting new school year. Participants like Yayee from Thailand, who has been in the U.S. for almost three weeks with Max and Genevieve, are each embarking on a unique journey alongside their host families. They’re building cultural understanding through precious memories that are sure to last a lifetime.

But not all incoming AFSers have found their host families yet. Some are still eagerly awaiting the exciting news that a warm, welcoming family like Yayee’s is ready to welcome them home.

Will you consider inviting an accomplished young exchange student into your family?

Visit afsusa.org/host to learn more about Ege, Isa, and the other students who are ready to begin their adventures with you here in the U.S!

08/26/2026

“This has not only been the best year of my life, but has also changed my perspective on life in so many ways. l am beyond ecstatic to share a piece of my journey through my shots.” - Sebastian T. from Florida (U.S. to Portugal)

Calling all study abroad students and recent alumni! Our AFS-USA Study Abroad Photo Contest is coming to a close soon on August 31, and we want to make sure you have the opportunity to share the beauty of your host country with the world.

If you’re selected as one of our contest winners, you’ll receive...

🗓️ A spot in our 2027 AFS-USA Calendar featuring your photo/quote

🌍 An intercultural-themed gift

📱 Various features on our social media platforms and marketing materials

🔗 Submit your selections at https://form.jotform.com/261535928199168 – and don’t forget to include a quote or story about the experience!

Photo: One of our 2026 calendar photos by Sebastian T., taken during his AFS program in Portugal

08/25/2026

08/25/2026

We’re continuing our video series highlighting Iliana’s () AFS experience in China with a common topic among our study abroad participants: overcoming challenges and experiencing personal growth. 🎥💬

When living abroad, there are many adjustments that come along with it, such as learning a new language, identifying a support system, and gaining confidence to navigate on your own. The good news? Students don’t have to figure it all out alone. AFS works closely with schools, host families, and students to provide support throughout the experience.

In this video, Iliana shares her perspective on this – and how stepping out of her comfort zone has transformed who she is.

🌍 Stay tuned for more from Iliana and learn about AFS-USA study abroad opportunities at afsusa.org/study-abroad

08/24/2026

Over the last five years, Jenny and Mike Messner have supported AFS-USA student exchange experiences through the Speedwell Matching Gift Campaign – and this is your last chance to get your donation matched!

Thanks to Jenny and Mike’s generosity, every gift of any size — up to $250,000 — will be matched through August 31, 2026. By donating before the deadline, your gift will go twice as far in helping students achieve their dreams through the power of studying abroad.

🎁 Double your impact today at https://www.afsusa.org/donate/speedwell-matching-campaign!

08/19/2026

We recently heard from Federico, an AFS-USA volunteer who received a scholarship to attend the AFS Youth Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland!

“Greetings from the AFS Youth Assembly in Geneva, which hosted 700 delegates from 80+ countries around the world! I helped out with logistics during the main event and chaperoned a group of 30 students through lectures and workshops at the UN and WHO offices. It has been a truly life-changing experience. Thank you so much for making this unforgettable experience possible.”

The AFS Youth Assembly, which takes place annually, is a gathering of ambitious young people (ages 18-32) from around the globe who are dedicated to making a difference. AFS Intercultural Programs awarded two volunteers, Federico from the Capital Area Team and Marie from the Baltimore Area Team, scholarships to make their participation possible during the 2026 event.

Many of our volunteers have received opportunities to make global connections and explore the world through the AFS network, all with the purpose of building a more peaceful world.

🌎 Learn more about volunteering with AFS-USA at afsusa.org/volunteer!

08/17/2026

Today we’re kicking off a special video series highlighting our study abroad programs – all through the eyes of a participant!

Join us as we explore Iliana’s experience living abroad in China, where she answers commonly asked questions about the benefits, challenges, and expectations that have shaped her journey.

💬 Today’s question: Why did Iliana choose AFS-USA to study abroad?

Stay tuned for more from Iliana and learn about AFS-USA study abroad opportunities at afsusa.org/study-abroad!

📱 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/AVxlZVyBu0Y?si=RTHVNY4RhHeIly_u

08/13/2026

What does it really mean to welcome an exchange student into your family?

In our latest AFS Exchange Podcast episode, we’re revisiting some of our favorite hosting moments—from those first nervous days to the moment a guest becomes family, and the lifelong impact of exchange.

Hear stories from host parents, host siblings, and exchange students about the connections, challenges, surprises, and unforgettable moments that make hosting so meaningful.

🎧 Listen to Best Of: Hosting Moments and explore more episodes at afsusa.org/podcast.