Thanks to a rigorous selection process, each year PAX admits hundreds of truly impressive teens—like the alumni above. So, how do you find the right one for your family? If you're interested in a particular part of the world, that's an easy enough starting point. But why not consider what makes your family unique? Whether your family loves to hike, cook, hoop, or rock out, you're sure to find a great PAX student with similar interests!
For years, orientation staff have played "thumball" as a fun icebreaker for PAX students at the NYC arrival orientation.
It's a great way to get the students warmed up and get those first nervous words out of their mouths. It's also a fun way to begin to get to know them—which is why we thought you'd be interested!
“This has been such a wonderful experience for all of the great people I have met and for all of the culture that I have learned.”
—Andrea (Spain), hosted by the Bryant family (AL)
“I cooked borscht, the Ukrainian national dish, for my host family. We ate it all up to the last drop—they loved it!”
—Yana (Ukraine), hosted by the Armstrong family (MS)
“I volunteered over 150 hours and made some good friends in the process.”
—Daniel (Moldova), hosted by the Blunt family (MO)
“So far, I’ve gone to a fair, the waterfront in Burlington, and even tried S’mores at a bonfire.”
—Angie (Germany), hosted by the Lauziere family (VT)
“A year in your life? More like a life in a year—I have made so many golden memories!”
—Ali (Pakistan), hosted by the Maxwell family (OH)
“During the Civic Education Workshop in Washington, D.C., I had the opportunity to meet Senator Patrick Leahy. It was an eye opener for me as a future leader.”
—Haziq (India), hosted by the Page family (VT)
“I dressed up as a gypsy for my first Halloween—I even went around the neighborhood with my host family and friends!”
—Wahyuni (Indonesia), hosted by the Paske family (UT)
“I made good relationships with teachers, and I have lots of friends. I am in cross country and theatre. I volunteer every minute I can and love meeting new people.”
—Milica (Montenegro), hosted by the Morbeck family (KS)
"I presented nine times in my high school, as well as in a middle school, elementary school, and at church. I learned how to be confident in front of my audience and ready to answer a lot of questions."
—Saltanat (Kyrgyzstan), hosted by the Fawcett family (IN)
“I’m having a great time! We saw local attractions like a light show in a botanical center and celebrated holidays I didn’t know—like Thanksgiving.”
—Khapiya (Kazakhstan), hosted by the Osadcii family (AL)
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