Impacts of Exchange Programs

Impacts of exchange programs

New capitalist countries such as Albania have relatively been unfamiliar with exchange programs. Only recently, these programs are gaining popularity among students of these countries. However, three years ago I was lucky to find out about YES (Youth Exchange and Study) program and be part of it. After three stages of selection, me and thirteen other Albanian high school students were chosen to go and spend a year in the US as the first Albanian generation of exchange students. What first appeared as impossible became a reality that changed my lifestyle and developed my personality. Overall, exchange programs such as YES, FLEX or Erasmus keep having a positive universal impact on society. Today they represent one of the best strategies to minimize global conflicts and that is why their worldwide promotion is essential.

Being an exchange student is an experience that has shaped my conception of the world. Previously, my life used to be focused on studying and academic activities. I was narrow-minded and with a monotonic lifestyle. After spending a year at an American high school things changed. Thanks to the professional American teachers and welcoming friends, I integrated into the student life very easily. I joined clubs such as Interactive club, International Club and Debate Club, as well as got involved in fundraising, community service, debate tournaments etc. I realized that I had the potential to study and be active at the same time. These activities developed my organizational and leadership skills and therefore became useful for my ambitions, especially when I applied for the job as YES alumni coordinator back in Albania. I got the job and experienced a personal growth by working with other alumni in organizing projects with the aim to spread American culture in Albania and improve the community at the same time.

One of the most beautiful parts of the program was living with an American host family. This gave me...