The life changing adventure of becoming a high school exchange student

More than 30 years ago I was an AFS exchange student to Italy when I was 17 years old.  It has sparked in me a passion to spread the word about this life changing experience.  The experience led to a life long love of languages, travel, and seeking cultural understanding.  I have also been fortunate to continue a relationship with my Italian host family through these many years.  I will be blogging about international learning and exchange including anecdotes, student and host family experiences, and program information.

AFS Intercultural, the program I have a long affiliation with, has been in existence for more than 60 years.  They send and receive students to more than 50 partner countries.  Their safety record is among the best and they have a unique infrastructure of more than 30,000 volunteers worldwide, on the ground, who are there to support  students in their hosted community.  Who are these volunteers?  Past exchange students, past host families and committed volunteers who understand that person-to-person diplomacy is the surest path to peace.  My name is Anne Reustle and I am one of those volunteers.  And I am a resource for the community.  Please ask me anything.  I will be honest and clear with my answers.  Believe me, it's an adventure worth considering.

If you'd like more information about how to become an AFS exchange student (or if your family would like to host a student), please contact me at anne.reustle@afsusa.org. Or visit http://www.afsusa.org/ and click on study abroad