By Elsie Gin (YES 2019-20, Nigeria, hosted by AYUSA in Augusta, ME)

My name is Elsie and I'm a YES exchange student from Nigeria hosted in Augusta, Maine. When I arrived here in Maine, I was greeted by my host family with smiles, hugs, and a welcoming environment. I already felt a part of the family. Days went by and they made me feel so comfortable in their home. It was as if I was back home, just with an American family. They always ask me questions about my family and home country. They made sure they introduced me to their extended family and friends as their "daughter from Nigeria". I truly felt loved.

Then came the first day of school. My new school is so much bigger than the one back home and I almost got lost going to my classes. But thankfully, my homeroom teacher assigned me a buddy who showed me around and made sure I was well settled. One thing I loved about my American school was that everyone was always quick to reply to the slightest plea for help. They always wanted to help out.

A particular thing that has struck and touched me was how much Americans value volunteering. They volunteer to do things without asking for credit. It has become a part of their daily lives and it's awesome! So this particular day, I was in the hallway by my locker and I had 2 minutes until class started. Guess what made me be in the hallways still at that time? My locker! I couldn't figure out how to open it with the combination even after being taught a number of times. It was nerve-wracking and I didn't know what to do. So I turned back and saw a man that looked like he was rushing to go repair something with his toolbox. I stopped him and asked if he could help me out with my locker. Surprisingly he stopped and helped me out and I was so thankful and happy. I started to leave and was saying thank you as I picked my books out of my locker. He said something that really struck me. He said, "The same way I put a smile on your face is the same way you should put a smile on someone else's.” That was so beautiful and I was determined to make someone's day. 

Overall, I’ve just spent 3 weeks in America and I love it here, especially in Maine. Thank you YES.