YES Programs

MENU  

STORIES


Becoming a YES Student

Phi Abad Macabanding Aces School Play

By Abad Macabanding (YES 2017-18, Philippines, hosted with ACES in Fountain, MN)

As YES students, we have many goals: to promote mutual understanding between two countries, foster long-term ties, bridge cultural differences by sharing about and adapting to each other’s culture, and most importantly to acquire leadership skills which can benefit our community at home by using and applying those skills and knowledge that we have learned in the US.

Becoming a YES exchange student is both an opportunity and responsibility. At first, it is essential to challenge yourself to learn important skills that will make you a better leader. The leadership skills that I learned during my program in the U.S. helped shape who I am today and will hopefully help me make a positive impact on my community. It is important for me as an individual to develop a strong sense of personal leadership style and use this in respecting differences, avoiding stereotypes and racism, and inspiring other people to be better versions of themselves as advocates and representatives of their countries. I think it’s important to develop leadership skills because, when I can be a positive role model and make a positive change in my community, it doesn’t just benefit me but also my community. As we all know, youth can have key roles to play in community decision making. I believe youth are the hope for the future of my country.

As a peace advocate and an exchange student, it is important for me to keep a positive attitude. It is helpful to sometimes remind ourselves that our disposition and attitude can influence how others see us. Living in a country with a culture different from yours is challenging but, from my perspective, being positive will go a long way in helping you handle new and challenging situations and have a fulfilling experience. I’ve learned that confidence, patience, and courage are also good skills to use in overcoming those fears that might have hindered my exchange experience.

Phi Abad Macabanding Aces Vol With Feed The Children
Abad volunteering at a food bank in his host community

There are so many other things I have learned during my exchange year, one of them being: Good communication means listening as well as talking. It is important for me to have the skills to communicate my vision to others, which I think is an essential part of being a good leader. During my YES year in the U.S., I have also learned to take initiative and share ideas. Sharing my culture here in the US is a once in a lifetime opportunity. It is important to know that my culture is not only appreciated and valued but that my host community has also learned from my presence. And I have learned from my host community by being engaged and taking initiative to participate in community activities, clubs, and school events. Volunteering provides an important way for me to learn about my host community, increase mutual understanding and helped me develop leadership and organizational skills to bring back to my home community.

I hope all of these will benefit my community when I return to my home country and share what I’ve learned about the differences and similarities between the U.S. and the Philippines. When I return home, I hope to use my leadership skills by participating in a club or organization that advocates for peace. I believe that peace stands for Progress, Empowerment/Equality, and Acceptance via Cultural Exchange! By using the skills and knowledge gained during my YES year, I hope these small steps will have a great impact.


Share: