By Maram Amami (YES 2021–2022, Tunisia, placed by Aspect in Denver, CO)

When I applied to be a participant at Civic Education Week (CEW), I tried to manage my expectations because it was a competitive selection process. Although I felt a bit discouraged at first, I still tried my luck. Among the hundreds of applications that other YES students submitted, I was selected! When I received my acceptance, I was filled with pride and accomplishment. Afterwards, I began my great CEW adventure. 

CEW was held at Washington D.C., the beating heart of the United States. I could have never anticipated the strong bonds that I built with my peers from all over the world. For me, the real magic of CEW was being surrounded by other YES students who are just as driven as I am to make the world a better place. I remember observing these peers during the workshops and how determined they were to make their voices heard and their ideas noticed. I can’t recall one time when my new friends didn't ask questions after the guest speakers’ presentations concluded. As soon as the guest speaker asked for questions, hands always shot up around the room. 

Since attending CEW, I have started thinking about studying international studies at university and then working for an international organization after graduation. I only recently discovered this interest since my time on the YES program involves interacting with people from different countries. Before CEW, I was hesitant to fully commit to this passion, but now I am ready to pursue it boldly. Thanks to all the students, the staff members, and guest speakers I met at CEW, I feel empowered to follow my strong interest to learn more about global issues and apply the lessons I’ve learned to develop solutions. 

I am so grateful to have experienced CEW and to have met such inspiring people who enlightened my mind and pushed me to become a better world leader. I am also grateful for the dreams that CEW ignited in my heart and for the opportunity to visit the capital's historic sites. Above all, I am deeply appreciative for all the people who worked to make this adventure possible. CEW was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and it is the highlight of my exchange year.