This orientation will cover the following topics: FLEX Program Inception and Reach

The Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) and Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) ProgramsSupporting your YFU Scholar

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. “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

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). * Eurasia is an official term used by the United States government to describe the republics of the former Soviet Union. “My amazing host family and friends made me tie close bonds and fall in love with America.”Marina from Moldova 1993- 2002 2014 1993 • Over 21,000 FLEX scholars participated in program

FLEX INCEPTION & REACH • FLEX scholars come to the US from 10 countries in Eurasia, spanning Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Caucasus “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. ”Serhiifrom Ukraine

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. “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 2002 2007 2014 • Over 7,000 YES scholars participated in program

YES INCEPTION & REACH • YES scholars come to the US from 45 countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Southeast Europe • YES Abroad US scholars travel to Bosnia & Herzegovina, Egypt, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mali, Morocco, Oman, Thailand, and Turkey “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

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. “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 ADMINISTRATION “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

SELECTING FLEX & YES SCHOLARS “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

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 “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 The FLEX & YES programs offer special supports to promote its scholars’ success: Orientations Cross-Cultural Resources Financial Allowances & Insurance Monitoring Communications Required Activities “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 ORIENTATIONS ”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 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. ”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 CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS: RELIGION ”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: 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 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: 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. ”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: 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. “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: 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. ”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: 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. “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 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 “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: 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! “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 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 “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 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 ”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 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 “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 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 ”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: 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 “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 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 ”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 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

Thank you for supporting aYFU scholar!

This orientation will cover the following topics: FLEX Program Inception and Reach