YES Program Lessons: Host Family Bonds & American School Life - Aya's Story

In this heartfelt episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross speaks with Aya, a high school exchange student from Morocco who came to the United States through the prestigious Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Program.Aya shares her vibrant journey as a YES Program exchange student, from fulfilling her dream of riding a big yellow school bus to continuing her passion for gymnastics while adapting to life in a new culture. She reflects on the deep connections she built with her American host family and school community, the cultural differences she embraced, and the personal growth she experienced through this transformative international education opportunity.This episode offers a unique perspective on the Kennedy-Lugar YES Program, showcasing the power of cultural exchange, the joy of discovering new traditions, and the importance of staying true to your roots.🎧 Tune in to hear:What it’s like to be a high school exchange student in the U.S.How the YES Program fosters global understanding and leadershipAdvice for future exchange students and host familiesPerfect for students exploring study abroad scholarships, families interested in hosting exchange students, and anyone curious about the impact of global learning and intercultural experiences.Read about Aya in the Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/02/04/winter-sports-notes-high-school/Follow Aya on Instagram: @yundouo_07For more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/Chapters00:00 - Meet Aya: From Morocco to Virginia00:58 - The Yellow School Bus Dream & The Simpsons03:19 - Preparing for Exchange and Convincing Her Parents06:07 - Growth, Confidence, and Cultural Immersion09:01 - YES Program and the Application Journey14:09 - First Impressions and Adjusting to Life in the U.S.17:02 - Finding Joy at School and in Sports19:00 - Deep Bonds with Host Family21:42 - Creative Passions and Social Media Takeover23:38 - Cultural Differences and Communication Styles25:52 - Building a Family Connection30:52 - Making Friends and Finding Belonging33:41 - Education Differences and Favorite Class39:00 - Sharing Moroccan Culture at School40:57 - Favorite Foods and Core Memories42:32 - What’s Next and Advice for Future StudentsHost & Producer: Kelsey RossEditor & Producer: Mel DyjakDirector: Megan Michels