By Debora Setu (YES 2017-2018, Bangladesh, hosted by CIEE in Jamesport, MO)

I am Debora Biswas Setu and I'm from Bangladesh. I said "YES" to the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study program, and have witnessed a dream come true! I waited and wondered for so long about experiencing something new. I always thought about living life differently and how I could achieve this dream. Because of the YES program, I can finally say that I have been immersed in a different culture in a different country! Saying "Yes!" to new opportunities has become an affirmative action for me in life since starting the YES program! I'm currently studying in Grade 11 at Tri - County High School in Jamesport, Missouri. This is the fourth month of my exchange program and I'm enjoying each and every moment of my life in the U.S. Every time I think of the opportunities available to me through the YES program, I can't help but think of the word "Yes." This word spreads positivity and engagement when you allow change into your life.

My journey started a year ago when I was in Bangladesh going through my same-old, every day routine. Little did I know my life would change within the next year because of the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study program! I am proud to be a Bangladeshi ambassador for YES! I can't thank the YES program enough for giving me the opportunity to share my culture with such a wonderful, multi-cultural country. I am learning so much about myself and the world, and I am surrounded by loving people who make me feel incredibly special. Through the YES program, I have learned how to be independent, form relationships and be positive in life. Most importantly, I have learned how to be a leader. Being a leader doesn't require special training or special schooling. You only need to say "YES,"  be engaged and want to join the most interesting world. I know from my own experience that you'll have the opportunity to create wonderful memories and spread your culture to the rest of the world. I said "YES" and you should too! Thanks Kennedy Lugar Youth Exchange and Study Program for making my dream come true.