Transcript Document
The Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) and Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) Programs Supporting your YFU Scholar
“I thought all Americans don’t like Muslims due to 9/11. But I was wrong. The love they gave me in these 10 months changed everything for me.” Muhammed from Pakistan • • • • • • • •
OVERVIEW
This orientation will cover the following topics:
FLEX Program Inception and Reach YES Program Inception and Reach Program Objectives Program Administration Selecting Scholars Scholars on Program Program Impact Program Resources The FLEX & YES programs share many features. This presentation will note where differences apply.
“My amazing host family and friends made me tie close bonds and fall in love with America.” Marina from Moldova • • • •
FLEX INCEPTION & REACH
The FLEX program was founded in 1992, as part of the Eurasian Secondary School Initiative under the FREEDOM Support Act.
The Act’s sponsor, Senator Bill Bradley, believed the best way to ensure lasting peace and understanding between the US and Eurasia* is to allow youth to learn about the US and Americans firsthand.
Provides high school students from countries in Eurasia the opportunity to live in the United States with host families and attend high school for an academic year All students receive full scholarships, funded by the United States Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).
1993 1993 2002 2014 First group of FLEX scholars arrives in the United States YFU USA partners with the FLEX program from its inception until 2002 YFU USA continues its partnership with the FLEX program Over 21,000 FLEX scholars participated in program
* Eurasia is an official term used by the United States government to describe the republics of the former Soviet Union.
“I have learned how to view complex problems from multiple angles – my outlook was no longer secluded within a single cultural, traditional, or societal paradigm. ” Serhii from Ukraine •
FLEX INCEPTION & REACH
FLEX scholars come to the US from 10 countries in Eurasia, spanning Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Caucasus
Eastern Europe and Eurasia Central Asia Caucasus • Moldova • Russia • Ukraine • Kazakhstan • Kyrgyzstan • Tajikistan • Turkmenistan • Armenia • Georgia • Azerbaijan
“This program taught me many things. It opens my eyes to see the world from totally different perspective, I see myself become more confident, independent, and aware about myself, people, community, and environment around me.” Intan from Indonesia
YES INCEPTION & REACH
• • • • • Launched to build bridges of understanding between the United States and countries with significant Muslim populations in response to the events of September 11th, 2001 Senators Ted Kennedy (D) and Richard Lugar (R) led bi-partisan congressional efforts to create and fund the YES Program in 2002.
Provides high school students from countries in Asia, Africa, Middle East, and Southeast Europe the opportunity to live in the United States with host families and attend high school for an academic year All students receive full scholarships, funded by the United States Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).
The YES Abroad component sends US high school students to select YES countries for a semester or year.
2002 2007 2014 First group of YES students arrives in the United States YFU USA joins the YES program consortium 248 YFU YES scholars placed across all YFU districts since 2007 Over 7,000 YES scholars participated in program
“I used to think all high school kids were mean like the movies I have seen. I also use to think America still had segregation and discrimination like the 1950’s. This has all reduced and it s better than what I expected.” Sona from Liberia •
YES INCEPTION & REACH
YES scholars come to the US from 45 countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Southeast Europe Afghanistan (2004-11) Algeria (2004 7) Bahrain Egypt Gaza Iraq (2004-9) Israel (Arab Communities) Jordan Kuwait Lebanon Libya Morocco Oman (20xx 13) Pakistan Qatar Saudi Arabia Syria (2003-5) Tunisia West Bank Yemen Cameroon Ethiopia (2007-9) Ghana Kenya Liberia Mali Mozambique Nigeria Senegal Sierra Leone South Africa Suriname Tanzania Bangladesh India Indonesia Malaysia Philippines Thailand Albania Bosnia & Herzegovina Bulgaria Kosovo Macedonia Turkey Suriname • YES Abroad US scholars travel to Bosnia & Herzegovina, Egypt, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mali, Morocco, Oman, Thailand, and Turkey
“The diversity of culture would be the one thing I miss because there is no other place in the world where you find it.” Asif from Pakistan • • • • •
FLEX & YES PROGRAM OBJECTIVES & GOALS
The FLEX program aims to promote respect for cultural diversity, friendship between the United States of America and Eurasia, and opportunities for personal development through international host family living.
The YES program aims to promote mutual understanding between Americans and people in countries with significant Muslim populations.
Shared FLEX & YES Program Goals:
Acquire an understanding of American society, people, values, culture, diversity, and respect for others with different views; Interact with Americans and generate enduring ties; Teach Americans about your home country and culture; Explore and acquire an understanding of the key elements of US civil society; Share and apply experiences and knowledge in your home country as alumni.
“This experience has changed my life forever. I am grateful to my host parents who taught me how to see the world differently, my American friends who helped me to stay optimistic during some hard times in the USA and my special “thank you” is for my host-sister […], because […] even though we may not talk much when we are part, still I feel connected with her.” Oksana from Ukraine
FLEX & YES PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
FLEX YES
American Councils for International Education is administer and lead grantee on the US Department of State FLEX and YES grants Administered in 10 countries by American Councils for International Education Administered in 45 countries by a consortium of organizations led by American Councils for International Education YFU USA joins American Councils for International Education and 12-15 US placement organizations to carry out the FLEX program grant through the US Department of State YFU USA joins many international partners to carry out the YES program grant through the US Department of State
Lead Grantee for FLEX/YES
American Councils for International Education
Student Recruitment
FLEX: American Councils YES: AFS, American Councils, Amideast, iEarn, IRIS
Student Placement
and others
Other Partners
FLEX/YES: American Councils, Mobility International USA (MIUSA), Imam Arafat (CECF) YES: iEarn NY
“This is an opportunity a lot of people wanted- you're the one that has gotten it- you will learn a lot of new things, come motivated, ready to grow up :) have a wonderful experience and enjoy it as much as I did!” Aicha from Senegal
SELECTING FLEX & YES SCHOLARS
FLEX YES
Approximately 1000 scholarships are awarded each year; 3% of students who apply are selected American Councils administers recruitment in over 150 cities based on competitive criteria. Be age 15-17; some students may have completed high school Over 8,000 students apply to participate in the YES program each year; 4% of students who apply are selected YES consortium members administer recruitment in YES countries based on competitive criteria. Be under 18 and have not yet graduated from high school Meet basic criteria for high school exchange Achieve record of academic success and English language ability Demonstrate ability to succeed on exchange Includes students with disabilities who meet the above criteria
“My beloved family….thank you for every thing this year. You took me in your house which is a great thing for you to do. I’ll always keep you in my heart and would never forget my moments with you.” Tasmen from Israel
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM YFU FLEX & YES scholars join the broader group of exchange students in YFU fields. They benefit from these opportunities shared by all YFU students: YFU host family YFU Area Representative US high school enrollment YFU orientations and support YFU local activities YFU scholars comply with all YFU rules and policies in: Passport to the USA & YFU Host Family Handbook
“After coming back from my FLEX year as an open-minded person with new ideas and interest in other countries and cultures, I did not want the wonderful experience of diversity and cultural exchange in my life to end.” Iryna from Ukraine
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM The FLEX & YES programs offer special supports to promote its scholars’ success: Orientations Cross-Cultural Resources Financial Allowances & Insurance Monitoring Communications Required Activities
”Our YFU orientation was very helpful and it helped bring back the spirit to work harder for the rest of the year.” Mayeesha from Bangladesh
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM ORIENTATIONS
FLEX YES
Pre-departure orientations conducted by American Councils in the home country Post-arrival orientation conducted by placement organizations several weeks after students’ arrival Re-entry orientation conducted by placement organizations several weeks prior to students’ return to home country Topics at FLEX pre-departure orientations include: FLEX program requirements, American families and their values, diversity and tolerance, budgeting, and high school in America Pre-departure orientations conducted by the sending partner in the home country Arrival orientation in Washington, DC before travel to host family conducted by American Councils and AFS; students also meet YFU National Office staff Re-entry workshop in Washington, DC after departure from host family conducted by American Councils and AFS Topics at YES-specific orientation sessions include: Cross cultural training, life with host family, US high school experience, YES program requirements, leadership skills, US politics and culture, practicing Islam in the US Scholars with disabilities attend a special disability awareness orientation conducted by Mobility International USA.
”In America we not only learn about American culture but we learn about so many different cultures. Here is cultural diversity, that’s why I am thankful for my YES program for such a great opportunity to learn about half the world and new ideas, new information that I couldn’t learn in my country.” Asif from Pakistan
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM
CROSS-CULUTRAL RESOURCES
Imam Arafat, Director of Civilizations Exchange & Cooperation Foundations (CECF)
• Advises on cultural adjustment and Muslim practices; • • • Meets with students at the arrival orientation in Washington, DC; Shares resources on Islam throughout the year with host families and students; Hosts conference calls for students to discuss adjustment and responsibilities.
YFU Cluster Leader
• • Most FLEX & YES students have a cluster leader, who organizes activities for students placed in nearby communities. At least 60% of YFU FLEX & YES students are placed in clusters.
The Cluster Leader supplements the Area Representative’s support to the host family and student regarding program- and culture-specific issues.
YES Support (YES only)
• American Councils support staff who communicate cultural insights and input from sending partner countries on adjustment issues • YFU Support Service Managers (SSMs) communicate with YES Support.
”I would like to say to the next generations of exchange students: look for the opportunities and never stop searching for something that you would like to do, and you can bring your dreams to life.” Margarita from Russia
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM
CROSS CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS: RELIGION
FLEX YES
Most FLEX scholars come from Muslim or Christian backgrounds; many may be non-practicing Most YES scholars are Muslim; some are other faiths (Christian, Hindu, etc.).
The frequency and degree to which participants practice their faith varies.
Your student may practice his/her faith differently than stated in the application.
Exposure to diverse faiths in the US is beneficial; however, students cannot be obliged to practice the host family faith.
Learn about and celebrate your student’s faith celebrations!
“I saw myself as a tiny string of the network of exchange students knitted all over the U.S. and now as I stand here, I have realized my true potential as an element of change, joining hands with all the people who are trying to make a difference on their part, so they can foster better understanding for a better world and a brighter future.” Syeda from Pakistan
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM
CROSS CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS: MUSLIM YFU SCHOLARS
Muslim student practices can vary widely depending on the home country and the student. Check with your student to determine his practices.
Faith practices
• Provide a pet-free space with privacy to pray at home, such as the bedroom.
• Personal cleanliness is key to prayer time; discuss practices with your student.
• • • Opportunities to visit a mosque are welcome but not required.
Be aware of religious holidays and ask your student how he/she celebrates.
Example: Ramadan, June 28 – July 28, 2014, is a major holiday that includes daily fasting with an Eid celebration at the end.
Diet
• • • A special blessing and/or vegetarian options accommodate students who eat only halal meat (meat butchered according to Islamic law).
Muslim students will not consume pork. Be sure to alert them when it is served or part of a dish as they might not recognize pork in some items, such as pepperoni.
Student may choose to follow a different diet than they observed in their home country.
”I celebrated Eid (a festival for Muslims) with my American host family who are Christians and gave them Henna tattoo and enjoyed Thanksgiving Holidays with them too. This month was filled with true cultural exchange along with a lot of fun and enjoyment.” Huma from Pakistan •
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM
CROSS CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS: NATURAL & HOST FAMILY ROLES/EXPECTATIONS
Life for youth in some FLEX & many YES cultures is typically centered around family activities; students may require more support and time to adjust and engage in activities outside the family.
• Designated male/female roles in home cultures may lead to adjustment issues: – Male students may need extra support to understand US male/female head of household roles.
– Female students are sometimes hesitant to engage and interact socially, especially around males, due to cultural norms.
• Students may feel pressure to respect natural parents’ expectations, which can influence their study habits.
“Never had I ever expected it to be this cold. The weather has been a huge culture shock for me but at the same time, doing winter activities like sledding, snow-tubing, ice fishing, while seeing snow for the first time in my life is indeed truly amazing.” Mayeesha from Bangladesh
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM CROSS CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS: PETS & ENVIRONMENT
Student from many YES cultures may experience adjustment issues related to pets and environment.
• • • •
Pets:
Many YES scholars come from cultures where pets are not typical.
Dogs and cats might be feral animals only in their communities.
Help students adjust over time by slowly introducing the pet and allowing for a pet-free space in the home.
Many YES scholars come to treasure their host family’s pets over time.
• • • •
Environment:
Dramatic differences in climate and architecture may require adjustment.
Experiencing snow for the first time may be wonderful; freezing temperatures and shortened daylight hours may be challenging.
Abundant trees and shrubs may be unusual for some students.
US homes made of wood “sound” different to students used to other structures.
”My beloved family….thank you for every thing this year. You took me in your house which is a great thing for you to do. I’ll always keep you in my heart and would never forget my moments with you.” Zeiadee from Israel •
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM CROSS CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS: HOME COUNTRY CONCERNS
Challenges in internet/phone access to reach the natural family in remote areas can cause students to worry; American Councils is available to help facilitate these communications.
• Political turmoil at home may trouble students; American Councils will provide helpful news updates from partners.
• Your student may come from a very different home environment with different traditions for eating, sleeping, etc. Be prepared to help your student adjust.
“It is very strange for me because planning is not that big of a deal where I come from; […] it was very strange for me to see plans made over months. I believe it is a great way to save time and energy and I sure will be taking this skill with me.
Alaeddine from Morocco
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM CROSS CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS: BEHAVIORAL NORMS
Values and norms in some FLEX/YES cultures may produce behaviors that can be misunderstood in the US context.
• • • • • • Direct eye contact with adults or members of the opposite sex is considered rude.
Teenagers are not accustomed to interacting with adults, who are considered respected figures of authority.
A child who is quiet, mild-mannered, and self contained is considered a good child.
Punctuality is not strongly valued; being 15-30 minutes late is not unusual.
As most decisions are made as a family or by the parents, teens are less independent and may be seen as indecisive to a US family.
Strong home country emphasis on high academic performance may create challenges in academic vs. life balance while in US.
“The FLEX year in the U.S. was a life changing experience – a bridge to becoming a citizen of the world, with a global community of friends and opportunities to pursue any educational or professional path I choose.” Izat from Kyrgyzstan • • • • • • •
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM CROSS CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS: BEHAVIORAL NORMS
Values and norms in some FLEX/YES cultures may produce behaviors that can be misunderstood in the US context.
Direct eye contact and passivity is an accepted gender role for females, but also possibly representative of respect for elders.
Strong dependency on parents, advice-seeking, and hesitancy to make independent decisions are common for teens who are encouraged to be “children” Males are not expected to contribute to household chores due to gender roles Not smiling is considered a neutral expression; smiling at strangers or “without a reason” is considered to be fake (FLEX) Persistence in the face of a “no” is common, due to the influence of complex bureaucracies (FLEX) Pessimism or complaints are a way to seek support or sympathy, or may be reflective of a general pessimism common in some FLEX countries (FLEX) Students may have difficulty taking personal responsibility and initiative due to collectivist home country norms
“This program taught me many things. It opens my eyes to see the world from totally different perspective, I see myself become more confident, independent, and aware about myself, people, community, and environment around me.” Intan from Indonesia
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM CROSS CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS: ADDRESSING CULTURAL ISSUES
• Misunderstandings may arise due to the student’s cultural background.
• Ask your student about his or her home country practices to avoid confusion and create opportunities for clarification on US practices • Be sure to promptly seek advise from your YFU Area Representative to effectively address issues!
“The school dances - prom and homecoming - were great because it is totally different aspect of teenage life which is unfortunately not present in our part of the world.” Asif from Pakistan
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM
FINANCIAL ALLOWANCE & INSURANCE
• • • •
Stipends:
Intended to provide a typical US teenage experience $125 monthly stipend – $250 is paid bi-monthly to students from YFU National Office $300 incidental allowance for school supplies, sports and club activities is paid by YFU National Office as receipt-based reimbursement to student or host parent Your student may not be familiar with handling money; speak with your student early on to help them budget.
• • • • •
Medical/Accident Insurance:
YFU FLEX & YES scholars are covered by the US Department of State ASPE medical plan Administered by Seven Corners Arrival packets mailed by YFU to host family and YES scholar shortly after arrival include ID cards, plan materials, and stipend check.
Customer Service Number: 1.800.461.0430
Website: http://usdos.sevencorners.com
”A lot of people have influenced me, taught me something, and became part of my life during this year, especially my host family… I know I will never thank them enough for what they have done for me. I have a lot of other people that have supported me a lot too: from my YFU area reps, to the awesome teachers, and my awesome friends.” Aicha from Senegal
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM
MONITORING
These measures provide opportunities for timely feedback as well as appreciation to our families and communities supporting FLEX & YES scholars: •
Visits & Telephone Contact:
YFU Area Representative contacts student and host family monthly • American Councils or US Department of State staff visit 20% of students/host families/schools (scheduled at convenience of host families) • American Councils staff check in via bi-monthly telephone calls with students & families
Surveys:
• • Students self-report to YFU via brief online monthly survey
Quarterly reports:
• YFU collects Area Representative, Field Director, and Cluster Leader feedback to share with American Councils and US Department of State
YES Support Calls:
Monthly conference call for Cluster Leaders, Area Representatives, and Field Directors with YFU National Office staff to share updates, resources, and questions
“After becoming a FLEX participant and alumnus I started to see the world around me with different eyes and decided to stay in Tajikistan, continue my higher education, and be a part of Tajikistan’s bright future.” Kholmati from Tajikistan
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM
COMMUNICATIONS
• •
Mailings (US postal service) from YFU National Office:
Arrival Packet sent to YFU scholar & host family Bi-monthly stipend check sent to students (direct deposit is an option) • •
Emails from YFU National Office:
Inform about FLEX & YES program opportunities, information, and reminders Sent to students, host family, Area Representative, Cluster Leader, and Field Directors • • • •
YFU contacts for host family and student:
Area Representative YFU Cluster Leader – assigned to FLEX & YES scholars placed in proximity Field Director National Office YES staff
”It surprises me how everyone is so involved in activities and they keep themselves busy. It surprises me how schools have so many club you can join and how teenagers here make their life productive by participating in a lot of activities.” Klea from Albania
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM
REQUIRED ACTIVITIES
Community Service (20 hours minimum required) • Volunteer work in community and school – Ex: food pantry, animal shelter, Habitat for Humanity Enhancement Activities (5 required) • Diverse local activities planned by YFU cluster leader/AR/YFU field – Ex: state capitol visit, interfaith celebrations, election observation
Leadership
• School clubs and community engagement – Ex: student government, clubs, leadership workshops Service Days (required participation) • International Education Week, November 2014 • – Ex: cultural presentation, food demonstration, arts performance Global Youth Service Day, April 2015 – Ex: park clean-up, assisted living companion, blood drive helper
These required activities provide opportunities for scholars to:
• • • Give back to the community and school Develop leadership skills Explore civic education and US culture
“Christmas in April is a 25-year old program that helps to renovate/ rebuild people's houses. I joined people from my church and we cleaned out a woman's house. The experience was amazing. The job that was done on that house was fantastic and that made the woman so grateful. I was just glad that I could make a difference.” Doreen from Tanzania
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM
REQUIRED ACTIVITIES: FOLLOW-UP
• • • Community Service (20 hours required) Students record their hours and submit final log to YFU National Office Students receive Certificate of Recognition from YFU Students achieving 100 hours earn US Department of State recognition • •
Leadership
Students record their hours and submit final log to YFU National Office Students receive Certificate of Recognition from YFU • Service Days – IEW & GYSD (required participation) Students record on their log and submit to YFU National Office • •
Students’ US community service and leadership prepare them to:
Apply for special leadership workshops Join alumni group projects in their home countries
”And the BEST thing that ever happened to me here in the US, the BUBW Conference, I will NEVER forget those days. Thank you to YFU for giving me that opportunity, it was a wonderful, incredible experience for me. I met people from more than 35 countries and made friends in one day, we became a family so fast.” Ndeye from Senegal
YFU SCHOLARS ON PROGRAM
LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
• • YFU FLEX & YES scholars will have opportunities to complete for a scholarship to attend leadership workshops in the spring sponsored by American Councils YFU USA also offers YFU FLEX & YES scholars a competitive application to participate in the Better Understanding for a Better World, an interfaith, intercultural conference in Baltimore, Maryland in the spring – – Up to 30% of YFU scholars may attend Area Representatives and Cluster Leaders may apply to participate as chaperones
YFU FLEX & YES PROGRAM IMPACT
Highlights from FLEX & YES scholars:
“YES has given me a hope that, I can change the world just by taking an initiative and that's how I am going to work now. MY LIFE HAS CHANGED. Thank you very much to every single thing, place,
people and all the organizations.” - Alyshan from Pakistan
“When I returned back home from my FLEX year, I started to think and look at everything differently, from a different perspective.” Nadia from Kyrgyzstan “It has changed me positively to be a more globally aware…It also has opened my eyes about borderless friendship, conflicts and
problems of the world, and how I can contribute.” - Dhia from Indonesia
“Nothing is more patriotic than singing the national anthem with
Americans before football games.” - Jad from Lebanon
“I understand now that there is nothing more important than working towards my dream and being responsible for every action that I take.” – Maryna from Ukraine
Visit YESprograms.org
and the Bradley Herald , the FLEX Alumni Newsletter, for amazing stories about FLEX & YES students on program and engaged in YES alumni work at home!
YFU FLEX & YES PROGRAM RESOURCES
YFU scholar materials are provided to YFU FLEX & YES host families in the arrival packet and to staff and volunteers on the YES Lounge .
Student Required Activities Booklet Q&A for YFU ARs, Cluster Leaders, Host Families CECF FAQ for YES Host Families Facts about Islamic Calendar CECF Ramadan Packet ASPE Insurance ID card and handbook
YES Country Handbooks are available for:
Egypt, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, South Africa, Southeast Europe, Thailand, and Turkey
FLEX Country Profiles are available for:
Armenia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Ukraine