By: Nagham Haifaitha (YES 2024-2025, West Bank, placed by CIEE in East Lansing, MI)

When I first arrived in the U.S., I was filled with excitement and anxiety. Everything felt so new and overwhelming. At first, I relied on my host mother to drive me everywhere. One day, she gently encouraged me to learn how to use the bus. My heart raced at the thought; I felt scared and alone in this big, unfamiliar country, unsure of where to go or how to navigate it.

I expressed my worries to her, explaining that it seemed really daunting. Sensing my fear, she assured me she would help me learn. With warmth and patience, she taught me how to read bus schedules and use GPS. I had never used GPS before, and I remember feeling completely confused at first. But with her guidance, I slowly started to understand.

Each time we practiced, my confidence grew a little more. I began to realize that I wasn’t just learning how to ride the bus; I was discovering a sense of independence I had never felt before. Eventually, I could navigate the city on my own, exploring new places and meeting new people.

When I arrived at my destination for the first time on my own, I felt an overwhelming surge of happiness and excitement. It was a thrilling moment that signified I was truly learning and growing in this new environment!

Looking back, I am profoundly grateful to my host mother for believing in me and guiding me through this journey. Learning to use the bus and GPS not only taught me practical skills but also helped me grow into a more responsible and self-reliant person. This experience has forever changed me, and I carry that newfound independence in my heart.

In addition, earlier this year, I traveled to Traverse City with my host mother, Meaghan, and my host sister, Beca, where I experienced the beach for the first time! The view was absolutely breathtaking and something I’ll never forget.

We visited Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where the towering sand dune rises more than 400 feet. People flock there to race down the hill and attempt to climb it again. Beca and I decided to join in, thinking it would be a breeze and would take us no more than ten minutes to reach the top. Ironically, it took us about an hour and a half!

When I finally reached the summit, a wave of triumph washed over me. I felt as if I could accomplish anything in the world! This experience taught me to appreciate challenges and not underestimate the things that may seem easy at first glance. It reminded me that if you’re willing to take risks and put in the effort, you can achieve something truly meaningful.

I am profoundly grateful to my family, my host family, and everyone working with the YES program who made this experience possible. Their support means the world to me, and I carry their kindness in my heart.