I learned more about America than 1000 years of lectures in Italy could have taught me. (former AFS student from Italy).
The AFS Intercultural Experience is more than just being in the vicinity of another culture. With a year abroad with AFS you can . . .
1. Find out something new about your own culture and point of view by seeing it from a fresh perspective.
2. Gain a real understanding of another country and its culture and society.
3. Learn a new language
- 47% of our Year Program Students become fully fluent in the host country language.
- Students typically increase 2 levels in their spoken language ability after a school year abroad, even if they start off with no knowledge of the language.
4. Build Lasting friendships with people from other cultures.
I have a much greater curiosity about foreigners whom I meet in my city, am more sensitive to certain problems in the world. (former AFS student from Italy)
5. Feel confident and comfortable with people from other cultures.
I have become more relaxed when I am with other people from other cultures.
We relate to each other because we are similar. We learn from each other because we are different.
