Feedback from AYA Host Families

"Annina, our host daughter, and our daughter, Kim, were like sisters, which was great because Annina didn't have a real sister back home. We're going to miss her more than words can say. We feel good knowing that we helped her learn about America, and that she touched so many lives while she was here. I know we'll keep in touch though because she's become part of our family."
Russell, AYA Host Father, Maine

"Life is all about choices. And no matter how great or seemingly insignificant the decisions might be, our lives will be affected by the choices we make. Rarely has our family made choices that have brought us such love, joy, excitement, pride and a sense of accomplishment as hosting a foreign exchange student."
Walt and Beth, AYA Host Parents, Arkansas

"I always tried not to think about when our student, Christina, would return to Germany, but as the days grew closer, I began to realize it was going to be hard to her and us to say good-bye. Nobody cried on the way to the airport but when it came time for her to board that big Lufthansa plane I felt it coming. I noticed Christina and her parents were fumbling with their luggage, and as it came time for the line to move they turned and everyone was in tears. I know I was only her 'host father' but I felt that I was her real father sometimes. We'll never foget her, and I'll cherish her stay with us—it was all worth it. It will take some time before we get over missing her, but we look forward to the time when we can all go to Germany and visit her one day. We made a friend for life in her, and her parents too."
Eric, AYA Host Father, Texas

"Jessica was the perfect member of our family. She played with our grandchildren for hours, was a great sister to all three of our daughters—27, 26 and 15 years old—and she played basketball with our 13 year old son. She was my helper in the kitchen and was always baking us a surprise. She was pretty good at playing cards and games, too. She wasn't just a helper but a great player in the snow! She'd walk, jog or ride bikes with whoever wanted to ride. Now tell me, where could you find a better student? We could have kept her forever. She will be a hard act to follow!"
Del and Karol, AYA Host Parents, Ohio

"It helps everyone look at their own lives from a different perspective."
Sheri and Greg, AYA Host Parents, Nebraska

"Our host student fit into our life wonderfully. We had a great year. We had so much fun—we will never forget it! She loved the American food, and we loved Hungarian pancakes."
Daryl and Marie, AYA Host Parents, Wisconsin