PAX - Program of Academic Exchange is a program of PAX Laurasian Exchange and is designated by the U.S. Department of State as a J-1 Visa Exchange Visitor Program sponsor.

Many firsts for Surinamese turned Arizonan

Since arriving in Arizona, Ronnyelle has experienced many firsts for her. She had the opportunity to attend an acting workshop with American actor Erika Alexander from the U.S. hit 90’s show Living Single. She is also fully involved in her high school’s student council program. This has given her the chance to meet new people, make friends, and she had the opportunity to attend a student leadership conference with kids from around the state.

She celebrated her first ever high school homecoming last weekend which included a parade, bonfire, and dance. She helped decorate and was on a float for the homecoming parade that student council organizes. She also helped decorate for the homecoming dance, attended the dance with her new friends, and had a lot of fun. 

She helped decorate and was on a float for the homecoming parade that student council organizes.

In Ronnyelle’s own words, “Being in an American school is very exciting. It is a very big adventure for me and I love my classes. Art is my favorite class. This was my first homecoming and dance and it was more than I expected and really fun. The people here are really nice. Student council helps me with time management and to make friends and be involved. I am very excited to be here through the PAX Program.”

We are so excited to share our home with Ronnyelle and to see her having so much fun!

—Maggie Carbajal (AZ), host mom of Ronnyelle (YES, Suriname)