Above photo: Karim, far right, with his host family

We are happy to announce the January 2020 YES Student of the Month, Karim Abualrish, from Amman, Jordan!  Karim is placed by American Cultural Exchange Service (ACES) and hosted in Visalia, CA, where he attends El Diamante High School.

Karim is an energetic and highly motivated student who is excelling in school and making a difference by actively serving his host community!  At school, his dedication to his studies is evident from his perfect GPA.  His Local Coordinator says that he “is one of the hardest working students I’ve seen!”  Karim has joined the Yoga Club, Media Arts Club, Associated Student Body Club, Cross Country, and has even started a Cycling Club. 

Karim is equally dedicated to his host community, having volunteered 150 hours so far!  He said his time served as a counselor at SciCon, a camp for elementary students focusing on science and conservation, has made him more mature and increased his communication skills.  Reflecting on the emotional impact of the experience, he recalled, “Every day the kids and I were having a lot of fun and seeing new things.  And the part that made me feel proud and sad at the same time was when they left; they hugged me with tears in their eyes because they were leaving.”  Karim has volunteered with other ACES students picking up trash and cleaning a hiking trail.  Through an after-school organization called ProYouth, he helps to set up and to run audio production for school events.

In addition to being deeply involved in his host school and community, one of Karim’s favorite hobbies is being able to share his language through writing lyrics and making music.  He recently performed at his church, host school, and at a talent show.  He enjoys playing his songs for his host family, with whom he has formed a deep bond.  His favorite things about living with his host family, he said, are that “they always include me in everything as a member of the family” and that “they encourage me to try new things.”

Congratulations, Karim!