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A Dream Come True

Lamiya 1

By Zarin Lamiya, YES 2016-2017, Bangladesh, hosted by ACES in Paradise, CA

Living in America used to be a dream for me. I would always watch Hollywood movies and listen to Western music. When I heard about YES, I started dreaming about America more and planning to study in the U.S. 

It was August 22, 2016 when I landed in California. I was so scared and excited to see America. It is a big country and I learned so much about the states and U.S. history. Before my arrival in the U.S., my views of America were different. Now, after my experience in the U.S., I know that Americans are hard-working and polite. They are respectful and open-mined. I met really wonderful people and made many memories! 

America has given me so much and the best thing I received is a loving family. I came here as a stranger calling them 'host family' and now I call them my 'family.' Have you ever experienced leaving your loved ones and your home where you called someone "Dad", "Mom", or "Sister" without knowing if you'll ever meet again? It's like leaving a part of your life behind or leaving a part of YOU behind. The emotions you feel when you realize your time in America with your host family is coming to an end is indescribable. This is why some say the experience is like riding a roller coaster. Towards the end of your cultural exchange year in the U.S., you're glad to return to your home country but sad that your exchange year has to end because of the impact your host family has on your life in the U.S. 

Prior to my exchange year, I used to hear many YES alumni say, 'YES changes your life.' Well, it did change my life. It changed my lifestyle and views. My exchange year helped me grow as a person and taught me the value of hard work and community service. I'm so glad I took advantage of this amazing opportunity. I am sad my exchange year has ended, but I am equally looking forward to being a better person and bringing positive change to my community in Bangladesh. 

I believe there's so much to achieve, you just have to be willing to search confidently and live courageously. 


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