By Maria Afridi, YES 2013-2014 student from Pakistan

International Education Week went perfectly for me. I was nervous about how I was going to celebrate it because my school is so big with lots of things going on, but I finally decided to talk to teachers to arrange presentations for me, and their cooperation was really commendable. I gave about 12 presentations in my school's Speech clubs, U.S. History class, Study Hall, Freshman and Sophomore Geography classes, Multi-cultural club, and English classes. 

I had no idea that I could speak that much about my country and its culture. I was mostly asked about the education system, marriage customs, and cuisine. They were also very interested in learning about the divorce system in Pakistan. Now my teachers want me to prepare a presentation that explains the relationship between the U.S. and Pakistan, and I am still working on it. 

I made some Pakistani food for my host family, like Chicken curry and 'Chapli Kebabs,' which were highly appreciated. The best part is that my host family wants me to cook for them on Christmas.

I volunteered for about 10 hours at an International State Festival in Indianapolis, where I met people from all over the world. This was so exciting! It was great sharing and learning about cultures of the world. 

This week helped me make tons of friends and connections, which I hope will be there for me throughout my life. Of course, thanks to the YES Program.