By Arfa Haq (YES 2023-2024, Pakistan, placed by Pan Atlantic Foundation in Mound City, KS)

Being placed in a small town called Mound City in the state of Kansas was one of the best things that ever happened to me. My exchange year was definitely life-changing. It gave me a chance to try out so many things and participate in activities that I had never tried before. It took me through many adventures, and one of them was taking part in the school play.

In our school play, "Vintage Hitchcock", I had the chance to play various minor and major roles. It took place in May 2024 at my exchange high school, Jayhawk Linn. One of the best things about participating in the play was that it really helped me to connect with the people around our school and make new friends. As I had never done theater before, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to participate much in the production; however, my teachers saw potential in me and with their help I had a chance to perform more than I expected!

The laughing and giggling while some of us practiced on stage are some of my most cherished memories that I will never forget. Every aspect of the play was led by cast members, from the performing to sound effects. The school play gave me a huge confidence boost: performing on stage has been one of my biggest achievements! Through the school play I found my love for art, especially theater and drama. In the end, our play was much appreciated by the audience and turned out to be a success. The local town newspaper published about it, and I was able to share my experience with them for this article. Furthermore, because I participated in the school play I received an award on awards night. This was indeed a big achievement as well!

My exchange year was a great blessing for me, and I am glad that I said "YES" to the opportunity.