by Katherine Mahoney ’20

 When most people hear talk of studying abroad they often think of some magnificent pipe dream that often is a topic admired from afar but never truly approached. With social media platforms growing, the desire for travel is starting to grow right alongside it. Because Montgomery County is in such close proximity with D.C, the desire to travel can sprout up faster than other more remote areas. People can travel almost anywhere out of D.C and can come from almost anywhere to D.C. 

 Youth for Understanding is a D.C volunteer-based global non-profit. This organization consists of at least 55 member organizations spreading across six continents. It helps people in the United States and other countries experience life changing trips abroad. The company is one of the world’s largest intercultural exchange programs with 60 years of success under their belt. Anyone above the age of 21 can volunteer, and anyone between the ages of 15 and 18 can travel.

 The company has taken the time to morph alongside the current and past changes in society. They are trying to create a community where everyone feels safe, stereotypes are broken, and bonds are made. Their vision is to create generations of empowered citizens for a more peaceful world. Their volunteers do lots of different work to accomplish and surpass their goals.

 By becoming a host family, you are not only showing a young person your part of the world, you get to experience theirs too. As you and your student learn more about the opposite cultures, you will both gain global perspective, making you a leader in the elimination of detrimental stereotypes. The company has helped more than 270,000 students and more than 70,000 volunteers. They also have many different opportunities for studying abroad for up to a full year. These once in a lifetime trips can start out as a way to have fun and get to see different parts of the world, but after the trips are over, the life experience and self awareness one gains from the travels mean much more than the pictures and outfits. Annie Ly, a community development manager for the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region explains how, “in a year-long program, our organization operates differently as we challenge [students] to be more independent and have autonomy of your own experience.”

 This inspirational company is working alongside people of all ages from all different backgrounds as a way to change the world and the people in it for the better. They help those breathtaking pipe dreams to become a reality.

 “Creating relationships that last a lifetime helps the world come closer together” Ly says.