Generally, upon arrival to the host country, AFS staff or volunteers will meet students at the airport, then travel to the program site for an Arrival Orientation. In some cases the host family may pick you up upon arrival, take you home and then your Arrival Orientation would take place within a few days. Participants should plan to contact their parents/guardians soon after arrival to confirm they are safely at the program location. This is a good time to set up phone Wi-Fi and get connected.
Arrival Orientation
As most participants will be quite tired after their long journey some rest may be scheduled before the Arrival Orientation, which serves to introduce many topics that will help you understand the program schedule and/or dorm living. This orientation also gives participants a chance to meet with peers from around the U.S and/or the world.
Topics covered in the Arrival Orientation include, but are not limited to:
- The history and mission of AFS
- Developing realistic expectations for your stay.
- Policies, local laws, and guidelines of the community
- Practical and essential information – a staff list with contact info etc.
- ID cards and medical cards
- The cultural adjustment process:
- Every AFS participant will experience a series of emotional highs and lows during their stay. This is a normal and important part of the intercultural exchange experience. The Arrival Orientation will also help students learn more about these potential adjustment issues.
Language Learning & Making Friends
Learning a new language will probably be one of the most rewarding aspects of your program! It is also a significant part of connecting with your host community. For these reasons, it is important to do as much preparation as possible before you depart.
Helpful Phrases
- Introductions (Hello, my name is... How are you? Nice to meet you. Etc.)
- Sincere opening questions (Hello, how are you? Nice to meet you…)
- Where is the...? (bathroom? bus stop?)
- How do you say...?
- Thank you; please; you’re welcome.
- Excuse me
- I need help; I’m lost.
- I like/do not like...
Language Learning Tips
- Label household items in the language you are learning.
- Seek out native language speakers/alumni in your home community.
- Watch television shows, movies, news in your host country language with or without English subtitles.
- Bring a photo book of your life at home and learn to talk about everything in it.
- Keep a journal of your experiences in your host country language.
- Don’t forget non-verbal language! Gestures may factor into your host country communication. How far apart do people stand when talking? Do people greet with a handshake; a hug; a kiss?
Going to the Doctor
If you feel sick or unwell while abroad, please let your host family or program staff know immediately so that they can seek medical attention for you as appropriate.
Practicing Your Religion
AFS respects all religions/religious denominations, and participants have the right to practice their religions while on program. Speak to your host family if you wish to attend a place of worship that is not part of their family routine, maybe they have a friend or neighbor who attends and would be willing to take you along. Due to the pre-planned daily schedule of most short programs, visiting places of worship individually may not be possible. Please speak to your program leader or local contact if you need to make arrangements for a quiet place for daily prayer.
Document Your Experience
Consider keeping a journal or blog while you are on program. If you are not a writer, consider drawing or using photographs to capture your experience. This can help you not only reflect on your experience long after your program has ended, but it can also help you process your experience as you’re going through it. It can also help you to tell your host friends and family what you have done and enjoyed so far and give you material for presentations about your host country when you return home!