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Moroccan - American Family

Moroccan  American  Family

By Meryem Aksbi, YES 2015-2016, Morocco, hosted by AFS in Madison, WI

One year ago, I didn't know there was something called an exchange program.

I discovered the YES program one day before the deadline, so I had to quickly ask my parents and find my English teacher for a recommendation. I applied one hour before the deadline. I submitted my transcripts and all the required documents, and I was accepted through the first step. But the next step was a big test.

I was scared because I didn't speak English well and I knew there would be other students above me, but I didn't give up. I had one month to learn as much English as possible. I took the interview, and in the end I was a finalist along with 22 amazing Moroccan students.

I waited the whole summer to know who my host familiy would be. I was excited and scared at the same time because this would be my first time outside my country and away from my family for a year.

On August 18th, 2015, I got my placement; it was one week before my adventure my would start. I was placed with the Pullara family, a Moroccan American family, and it was the best day of my life!

My host family and I had a really special relationship. We were so connected that we started making jokes right away. My host dad, Rachid, is a confident, friendly, nice, caring person. He always makes sure I'm comfortable and happy, and that I have what I need. My host brother, Ayoub, is a really nice person and we got to hang out a lot. When I first arrived, he made me feel comfortable in the family and he showed me a lot of things that I needed to know. Ayoub is smart and helpful even if we pick on him all the time. My host dad and brother went to Morocco for the Eid holiday and they visited my own family, which was amazing!

My host mom, Teresa, (or Hiba - her Moroccan name) is amazing. She is a wonderful mom that made my experience tremendous. I have never met anybody like her - a very strong, smart, active, careful, creative, generous, funny women. Teresa had a huge impact in my life; she helped me throughout the year to become a leader and to be strong. She's my role model.

This year was unforgettable. I got the chance to try lot of international food and to meet a lot of people from all over the world. I had a lovely family that I'll see each year when they come to Morocco!

Thank you so much, YES program, AFS , and all the people who made my year joyful!


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