Choosing the Right Exchange Programme: The AFS Difference
When it comes to exploring the world, choosing the right student exchange programme means looking for a balance of adventure,…
AFS Student
Gallipoli Youth Award Winners 2026: Walking in the Footsteps of Ancestors
“I don’t have any words in the dictionary that could describe that moment.” Lexie is referring to a moment…
Three Generations of AFSers in One Family
Is AFS contagious? You could be forgiven for thinking that it is, when you meet the Frew/Robb family. Starting with…
After AFS: Opportunities Beyond the Exchange
An AFS exchange doesn’t end after returning home. AFS returnees often continue to travel, take up leadership opportunities, and tap…
Returnee Rachel’s Exchange Reflections: Resilience
Written by Rachel Lilburn: I didn’t want to go on an AFS exchange to figure out my identity in the…
What an Unfinished Checklist Taught Me on Exchange in Japan
Coming to the end of her exchange in Japan, Layla, recipient of the AFS Whakamanaia Scholarship, learned that a successful…
A Different AFS Experience: Lucas’ Time at a Uniquely Danish Efterskole (Boarding School)
A Danish Efterskole is a school like no other! Danes say that one Efterskole year is equal to 7 regular…
Language is the Key: Isabella’s Brazil Update
“I think one of my favourite parts of exchange for me is the language. I never believed that I could…
Bowing, Beeping, & Being Open-Minded: Talie’s Life-Changing Semester in China
Introduction: From New Zealand to China Hi there! My name is Talie. In January 2024, I decided to become an…
Going on an Exchange Isn’t Easy, So Why Do People Do It?
“Going on an exchange isn’t easy,” says Ashley (AFS student in France), “and most people know that.” Leaving behind family,…
Manawa in Greece
Why Greece? Sun, History and the Unexpected My name is Manawa. Last year, I went on an exchange to Greece…
Kiwi Culture Experience
Five students from India immersed themselves in Kiwi Culture during our three-week short programme in April/May. They travelled through parts…
Loving Life in Boliva
Lucy, a recipient of an AFS scholarship, updates us on her time abroad in Bolivia so far: Introduction: My Adventure…
How Going Abroad Can Uplift Your Career: The Lasting Benefits of an AFS Student Exchange
Going on a student exchange is an adventure into cultural immersion, learning a language, fostering unique friendships, boosting confidence and…
Abroad in Poland: Where Jandals Don’t Cut It
Luke, recipient of an AFS scholarship, reflects on his time abroad in Poland so far: Introduction: The Start of My Exchange…
An exchange in Auckland: Helen, Germany
Kia ora, hallo! My name is Helen, I come from Germany, and I have been an AFS student in Auckland…
Returnee Reflections: Jade, France
Hi! My name is Jade and I went on an AFS exchange to France for a semester from January 2024…
Returnee Reflections: Thomas, USA
Nearly four months on from my exchange year to the U.S I still think about it every day. I don’t…
Te Ao Māori: from Germany to Gisborne with Milla
Kia ora! My name is Milla, I am 17 and I am from Germany. For the past five months of…
Returnee Reflections: Ava, France
I will forever thank myself for choosing to go on an exchange. It’s an experience I had always dreamed of…