18-05-2025
A student from Sitapur on her experience of the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (KL-YES) Programme
There are moments in life that change you in ways you can't fully understand until later; moments that shape your future and how you see the world. My year in the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (KL-YES) Programme 2023-24 was one of those moments. This programme, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, gave me an opportunity to be part of a 10-month cultural exchange in the U.S., where I learned about leadership, peace, and global connections.
My journey started in September when I landed in Boston, just as the city's autumn colours were at their peak. The mix of Boston's history, the energy from its universities, and the excitement of sports made the city feel alive, and the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of fall made it feel like the perfect time to start something new. From the start, my host family made me feel at home. I was introduced to the everyday rhythms of American life, and I realised that home is not just about where you live, but who you're with.
More than a visitor
Through the year, I travelled to places like Wisconsin, New York, and Georgia but what made these trips special wasn't just the sightseeing; it was the experiences we shared. Whether it was celebrating Christmas and New Year together, carving pumpkins for Halloween, or skating on frozen ponds in New Hampshire, those small, simple moments made me feel I wasn't just visiting; I was living it.
At Meridian Academy, where I was a sophomore, I learned to think critically and participate in discussions that mattered. It was more than about getting good grades; it was about engaging with ideas and people from all over the world. The Model United Nations (MUN) conferences I attended at MIT and Brown University were a great opportunity to connect with students from different countries and talk about global issues that we all care about.
One unforgettable experience was a two-week trip to Puerto Rico with my Spanish class. Besides improving my Spanish, I got to work on rebuilding homes and communities that had been impacted by Hurricane Maria. The KL-YES Program gave me plenty of opportunities to grow and I learned how to work with others toward a common goal. I earned a certificate from the U.S. Department of State for completing over 100 hours of volunteer work, which made me feel that I was truly making a difference. Whether it was in poetry and ceramics clubs or during MUN sessions, I learned how important it is to communicate clearly, collaborate with others, and take initiative.
Looking back, I realise this year led me to discover more about myself, grow as a person, and see the world in a bigger way. I came home with a deeper understanding of who I am, more excited than ever to continue exploring the world around me. Even though my time with the KL-YES programme has come to an end, the friendships I have made, the lessons I have learned, and the memories I created will stay with me. I'm beyond thankful to my family, my school, my mentors, and everyone who made this an experience I'll never forget.
The writer is a student of VidyaGyan School, Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh.
