By Toh Tecilian Yong (YES 2020-2021, Cameroon, virtually placed with STS Foundation in Houston, TX)

I'm so proud to be a part of the YES program this year. Although it is all taking place virtually and not in person as in previous years, I'm still happy because it has always been a dream of mine to interact with Americans and people from other countries. At first, I was unsure how to interact with people I would meet online but, with their kind attitudes, I felt confident when talking to them. This self-confidence can be linked to the wonderful work done by YES Cameroonian alumni during our pre-departure orientation. In addition, I had the opportunity to know more and more about the United States, not only its history but also the friendly attitudes of the people, which go against many stereotypes. I have had two host families, one in Arizona and one in Texas, and they have both been so friendly and encouraging to me. 

I'm so thankful to be able to participate in the YES virtual program because it's making my dreams come true, bit by bit. Through the program, I have come across so many Americans, ranging from Arizona to Texas and Washington. I have also come across so many alumni from other countries who are friendly as well. I now have friends from Lebanon, Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan, and Montenegro, and we all chat on daily basis. I have always loved international relations and I wish to work with the United Nations one day.

On Halloween, my current host mom sent me some pictures of her kids and other neighborhood kids holding candy baskets, to show how they celebrated this holiday. On Thanksgiving, my cluster coordinator shared pictures of her various Thanksgiving dishes. My host mom in Arizona shared some pictures of her whole family, which made me happy. On the other hand, my Texan family went out on a boat trip that day and showed me pictures of their outing. Although I wasn't there, I still felt happy. To conclude, even though I never got the chance to come to the U.S., I'm still forever grateful to be part of the YES program because I believe it's a great way for me to see what the future may hold.