In today’s interconnected world, global experiences and cultural understanding are more important than ever. AFS (American Field Service) is an international, non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting intercultural exchange and education. With over 100 years of history, AFS has played a vital role in fostering peace and understanding among nations through student exchange programs.
What is AFS?
AFS was founded during World War I and II by volunteer ambulance drivers who believed that cultural exchange could prevent future conflicts and promote peace. Today, AFS operates in over 50 countries, offering life-changing opportunities for young people to study abroad, experience different cultures, and develop essential skills for their future careers.
AFS programs allow students to live with host families, attend local schools, and immerse themselves in different cultures. Additionally, AFS provides students with a globally recognised certificate upon completion of their program, which is highly valued by universities and employers worldwide. These exchanges range from short-term programs lasting a few weeks to year-long experiences. Through this, students gain not only academic knowledge but also personal growth and lifelong friendships.
How AFS Benefits Students
1. Global Perspective
By living in a different country, students experience new traditions, customs, and ways of thinking. This exposure broadens their horizons, helping them develop a deeper understanding of the world and its diverse cultures.
2. Personal Growth and Independence
AFS programs challenge students to step outside their comfort zones, teaching them resilience, adaptability, and independence. Navigating a new environment enhances their confidence and problem-solving skills, making them more prepared for future challenges.
3. Language Skills
Living in a foreign country allows students to learn a new language through immersion. This enhances their communication skills, making them more competitive in the global job market.
4. Leadership and Social Responsibility
AFS participants often engage in community service and cultural exchange initiatives, developing leadership qualities and a strong sense of social responsibility. Many AFS alumni go on to become leaders in their fields, advocating for global understanding and cooperation.
5. Academic and Career Advantages
An AFS experience is highly valued by universities and employers worldwide. The ability to adapt, communicate across cultures, and think critically are skills that set AFS alumni apart in their academic and professional journeys.
Why Sri Lankan Parents Should Send Their Children on AFS Programs
In Sri Lanka, many parents prioritize high-quality education and career prospects for their children. An AFS exchange experience provides an added advantage by developing soft skills, global awareness, and networking opportunities that are crucial in today’s competitive world. AFS programs also have the support of embassies around the world, ensuring a strong and reliable network for participants. Students returning from an AFS program bring back invaluable insights and experiences that make them more adaptable and open-minded, preparing them for success in both their personal and professional lives. Additionally, AFS programs offer scholarship opportunities, making them accessible to a diverse range of students.
A great example of the impact of AFS is our very own Prime Minister, Harini Amarasuriya, who is an AFS alumna to USA in 1988/89. Her success story reflects the leadership, global perspective, and values that AFS instils in its participants, inspiring young Sri Lankans to aim high and contribute to society.
AFS in Sri Lanka
Sputnik International Sri Lanka Organization (SISLO), AFS Global Affiliate since 2021, has been actively sending students with the dream of restoring AFS in Sri Lanka to its former glory, providing young Sri Lankans with the opportunity to gain international exposure. Through programs like the Asia Kakehashi Project and other scholarships, Sri Lankan students have the chance to study in countries like Japan, France, Italy, and more, at a fraction of the cost than the private route.
With globalisation becoming a key driver in career success, an AFS experience equips Sri Lankan students with the skills needed to thrive in an international setting. Parents and students interested in this opportunity can reach out to SISLO to learn more about upcoming programs and how to apply.
AFS Programs for Over 18s
While AFS is widely known for its high school exchange programs, the AFS network also offers opportunities for individuals over 18. These programs include volunteering,
Internships and cultural immersion experiences designed to foster global citizenship and professional development. Young adults seeking to expand their horizons, gain international work experience, and make meaningful contributions to communities worldwide can explore AFS programs tailored to their needs.
AFS is more than just an exchange program—it is a gateway to personal and professional growth, cultural understanding, and global citizenship.
By participating in AFS, students gain invaluable experiences that shape their future and contribute to a more interconnected and peaceful world. If you are a student or young adult looking for an opportunity to explore the world, expand your knowledge, and build lifelong friendships, AFS might be the perfect program for you.
