American Host Families
At home, YES students are excited to share in the daily life of a real American family. Host families, in turn, find that everyday activities take on new meaning when shared with a young person eager to discover their way of life.
While some host families have teenagers or young children, others are empty nesters, single parents, or don’t have children of their own. The most important thing is that they are prepared to share their lives with a YES student as if this child were their own son or daughter—providing a bed, a quiet place to study, and a seat at the dining table.
Through the experience, families are able to put an irreplaceable laugh, smile, and spirit to a once faraway land, developing cherished, lifelong bonds and memories—forged at dinner tables, in rec rooms, and on back porches.
Medallion Member Schools
High schools that enroll YES students set themselves apart. Not only do they demonstrate a commitment to academic and cultural enrichment through international exchange, they also help realize U.S. foreign policy goals by fostering communication with the youth of key countries.
As such, they are invited by the U.S. Department of State to become Medallion Member Schools—a distinction recognized by pairing the official medallion with their school name on banners, newsletters, websites, clothing, and more.
And YES students are quick to give back to the school communities that welcome them. In fact, every YES student makes at least one cultural presentation and completes at least 30 hours of community service. Many also organize virtual exchanges—interesting and inspiring ways of using technology to connect their U.S. classes with classes back home.
YES Countries
The YES program creates connections among more than 40 nations. Click on any participating country below to learn more about its culture—including family life, the education system, personal interactions, food, hygiene, and more!