The International Living Room Vol. I, issue 12  

Welcome to our living room where each month we preview stories and news about AFS Students and Host Families. Here at AFS, we could go on and on about the many benefits of hosting an Exchange Student. In this issue we've decided to focus on the students themselves -who are truly the heart of the exchange experience. Below are examples of students who will be participating with AFS. Imagine your own living room transformed into an international gathering place by opening your home to students like those pictured below.

Happy Holidays from all of us at AFS-USA!


AFS is actively seeking families to host students arriving in mid-January 2007.

Once you begin the hosting interest form, we will connect you with a local volunteer to discuss specific students in your area.



"The love we now share as a global family has changed us forever, enriching our lives beyond our wildest dreams. We have experienced love in three languages."

-La Point Family, Russell, New York


"We experienced great satisfaction in knowing that we had helped a deserving young person. And that they, in turn, would carry their positive experience back to influence people in their country. We really feel that we contributed to world peace, one heart at a time!"

-Jan and Wayne, Tennessee


If this is not the right time for your family, consider getting involved as a student liaison. You'll have the chance to interact with AFS Exchange Students as a volunteer.


Other Links


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AFS in the News

Hosting FAQs


Juan from Argentina
Juan from Argentina
Juan expresses himself the best when he plays sports. He practices golf and rugby three times a week and he has matches during the weekend. In his spare time he goes out with friends, to the movies, dancing, and shopping. He also goes camping and skiing. Juan is an easy-going teenager. He's straight forward and always in a good mood. His family is the most important thing and his friends are his extended family. His parents say that he's sociable and a good friend. He enjoys a good meal and a good laugh. Juan comes from a close knit family. He has 2 younger siblings and many close friends. He often travels for golf tournaments and during holidays. His favorite subject in school is ethics, because is teacher's enthusiasm is contagious and inspiring.

Laura from Colombia
Laura from Colombia
Laura likes to dance and is a big fan of music. She describes herself as outgoing and admits to having an empathetic heart. "Other people's problems affect me very much," she says. Her friends often seek her advice and support. "She likes to be in touch with people and she shows interest in helping people," note her parents. "She has a lot of friends." Laura is a member of her school's events committee and geopolitics group. She also plays volleyball. Laura has studied English for eight years and French for two. Her teacher mentions that Laura "has a great ability to learn whatever topic she wants. She has a great human sense. The school is very proud of her."

Qing Shi from Malaysia
Qing Shi from Malaysia
Qing Shi enjoys many activities, such as bowling, squash, karate and badminton. This year he was president of his karate club, vice president of his school's library management team, and was selected to represent his state in the Sukma Games. "Friendliness and courtesy are his values," remarks one of Qing Shi's teachers. "(And) he has a good sense of humor." Qing Shi describes himself as jovial and laid-back. "I take life easy and from day-to-day." Qing Shi's ambition is to become a pilot one day. After high school graduation, he plans to attend a flight academy, where he puns, "I hope to pass with flying colors." Qing Shi comes from a close-knit family and always looks to make his parents proud.

Selene from Paraguay
Selene from Paraguay
Selene plays for an internationally-recognized soccer league. She has played on the team for three years and has served as captain of her team. She calls it an honor to have had the opportunity to lead her team. Selene is also a leader inside the classroom. She is the student body president. "My responsibility is big," she confides. "We as leaders should be the example. We have to be representatives of the school and represent its name highly." Selene was born in Brazil. While Spanish is her native tongue, she also speaks Portuguese. She has studied English for 4 years and speaks the language well. She nurses the dream of becoming a professional soccer player one day.


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Our Mission

AFS-USA works toward a more just and peaceful world by providing international and intercultural learning experiences to individuals, families, schools, and communities through a global volunteer partnership. AFS is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.


Contact
AFS-USA
AFS Information Center
1-800-AFS-INFO, ext. 1