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February YES Student of the Month

Siya Photo

Siya Joshi (YES 2018 - 2019, India, hosted by World Link in Exeter, CA)

We are happy to announce the February YES Student of the Month, Siya Joshi. Siya is placed by World Link and hosted by the Cervantes family in Exeter, CA.

Siya has volunteered 116 service hours and has given 35 cultural presentations in her host community.  Thanks to Siya, almost 900 members of her host community experienced Indian culture and took home a “bindi” on their forehead or another traditional item as a souvenir during her International Education Week (IEW) presentations. Siya showed the variety of traditional Indian apparel by sporting a new Indian outfit daily. She made a four-course Indian lunch for her peers to enjoy, taught children yoga, and taught her soccer team to play Cricket. Her energetic dancing and IEW success were highlighted on the school’s weekly news.

Over the winter holidays, Siya spread holiday cheer by helping children make international ornaments, visiting veterans, and singing carols. Dressed as Mrs. Claus, she delivered gifts with her host family to a family in need. Siya volunteers regularly at the Boys and Girls Club, where she choreographed a holiday dance for the children to perform in their talent show. Siya helps the children with homework and crafts, and plays games with them. Siya enjoys feeding underserved people at community dinners hosted by various churches, and volunteering at many community events.

Siya is a member of the Mock Trial program, a club that teaches students about the American judicial system, and recently participated in a competition playing the role of an “expert witness” in linguistics. She is secretary of the Drama Club and a member of Key Club. She also participated on the cross-country and color guard teams. Siya has shared her musical and dramatic talents, singing a traditional song during a school fundraising concert and performing in holiday plays.  

Behind Siya’s success lies her determination and formidable work ethic. She takes every opportunity to develop her leadership skills and make the most of her exchange year.

Congratulations, Siya!


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