Latest news with #Kennedy-LugarYouthExchangeandStudy
The Hindu
18-05-2025
- The Hindu
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.
Time of India
13-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
‘Power of edu' propels daughter of SHG worker to success
Lucknow: In a story that reflects resilience, determination, and the power of education, , daughter of a single mother and self-help group worker, has scored an impressive 95.2% in her Class 12 CBSE board exams in humanities stream. A student at Study Hall School, Kashish's journey began at , a part of the (SHEF) that empowers girls from underprivileged early for her academic brilliance, Kashish was awarded a scholarship by SHEF to continue her higher education. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Her achievements extended globally when she was selected for the prestigious Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) programme, allowing her to study in the US for a lost her father when she was just 5. Her mother, Shashi Yadav, has single-handedly raised three daughters while working at a women's SHG, preparing dry snacks and pickles. "After my husband passed away, people often told me I needed a son to support me. But I never believed that. I have my daughters, and they are enough. I faced many questions about choosing to educate them, but I didn't let anyone stop me. Prerna School gave me the strength and support to give them a better future. Today, when I see Kashish succeed, I feel proud that I never gave up," said now aspires to become an IAS officer, aiming to uplift others through civil service. "Every hurdle I faced only made me stronger. Growing up, I saw my mother work tirelessly to provide for us, and I understood what struggle means at a very young age. I've always known that I wanted to do something meaningful, not just for myself, but for others like me who come from difficult circumstances. Education gave me more than just knowledge, it gave me confidence, clarity and a voice. I want to become an IAS officer so I can use that voice to make a real difference. There are so many unheard stories out there, and I want to be someone who listens, understands and brings change. This result is not the end of my journey it's the beginning of my dream to serve society," said Kashish.
