YES student Houssam Metni from Morocco at his high school's National Honor Society induction ceremony.

By Houssam Metni, YES 2014-2015, Morocco, hosted by AFS in Gaithersburg, MD

After going to an American school for the first time last summer, I began to love it. I immediately realized how the school system was different, and how many activities I had the option of participating in throughout the school year. After the first three months, I became Manager of the Math Club, President of the Software Team in the Robotics Club, and an active member of the Key Club. I also tried out for soccer (but due to a mix up concerning the date of tryouts, I didn't make the team). I enjoy doing all of these activities, and I have made a lot of friends as a result; it is easier to make friends while participating in fun activities together. 

One of the most amazing groups I joined was the National Honor Society. It is designed for students who have demonstrated a set of qualities, which include: leadership, scholarship, service, character, and good academic performance. I had to apply for it during the month of October, and completed several forms – everything from general information and essays, to teacher recommendations! There were a lot of questions about leadership skills and service, and I made sure to write about being a YES scholar sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. This gave me an advantage!

On Thursday, December 12, I finally had my induction ceremony, and all the new members were honored by students, the school principal, and parents. I was so excited to join the National Honor Society, as that was one of my dreams before I came to the U.S. The YES program made it real and I am very thankful for it, as well as to my parents back home, my American family, my coordinator and my teachers for all their support!