YES Programs

MENU  

STORIES


Virtual Exchange Creates Opportunities for Learning and Sharing

Ina Dena Mandala

By Dena Mandala (YES 20-21, Indonesia, virtually placed with AFS-USA in College Park, MD)

Hi everyone, I’m Dena Mandala, a YES student from Indonesia. I have been participating in the virtual exchange program and have had so many new experiences and gained knowledge about America and other cultures. I have learned so many good values of this life, about how we should be grateful, how we respect others, and how we respond to diversity in our society. I have also had several opportunities to share my own culture. I have shared some unique traditions and ceremonies from Bali. I'm so satisfied to be able to share these with my American peers, virtual friends, host family, and my double placement. I believe one day that, when they come to Bali, I will take them to visit many amazing places.

During this virtual program, I have connected and met with so many kind people. I have a virtual host family who lives in Buffalo, New York. They are such a lovely family. They have sent me some pictures of their daily activities, as well as events such as Thanksgiving, Halloween, and how they prepare for Christmas. I'm thankful to have an opportunity to be with them. I also found my original host family. They currently have hosted two virtual students from Kyrgyzstan and Pakistan. We have had fun together through several virtual meetings and chats.  

Ina Dena Mandala Virtual Hfam Thanksgiving

I also did a presentation for them during International Education Week, and they invited some of their relatives and friends from the AFS-USA team. Though I was a bit nervous, I was so happy to be able to share my unique traditions from Bali.

Personally, I think the virtual program is really good. As I mentioned before, I’ve had so many experiences during the program. I hope that I will come to the U.S. and meet all of these people one day. In the beginning, I was a little bit disappointed, but I realize that I’m still able to get and share everything that happens from an in-person program. I'm determined to follow this program until it's officially done. I have considered my decision, and my parents always told me to always be grateful for what I have and to not do something halfway. That's why I will be in this program until next year, and I can't wait for another fantastic experience. 

Ina Dena Mandala And Ind Dbl Plcmt

In conclusion, I would like to say thank you very much to all who have been involved in this program. You’ve made all the participants feel welcome since the first time we joined. I hope we always stay in touch. I look forward to having more amazing sessions next year!


Share: