Why All Exchange Students Should Be At the YES
You decided to go on exchange, venturing into the unknown of a different life. All that is forever yours, and what difference does it make to also join the YES?
I promise you: if I could give a single gift to every exchange student in the world, it would be the YES. But why?
A Place to Explore Ourselves - and Each Other
I could tell you that the YES is a fantastic event. It brings you incredible workshops that will challenge you to become better. It has stage shows that will inspire you, and free time activities that you could not imagine. It is all that, but it is also so much more. The YES is a hub of energy. It extends your journey of self-discovery, of personal growth together with others like you. It empowers you to be part of a young generation of worldwide game-changers.
Whomever you are, whatever culture, country, or history you have, at the YES you can be you – entirely, bravely, perfectly you. Because it is a safe space for hundreds of young individuals to share the story of their life, their exchange journey, and how it changed them. No right answers, no two stories alike. Yet you will find that you share something with these other young minds that no one else can understand.
An exchange year is not a vacation, it is not an instance of one memory. It is a life: family, friends, sports, lunch breaks, history essays, falling in love, shopping for your new running shoes, going to a birthday party. There are good days, and bad days, but they all collect to an ensemble of memories. This is what we share. And I promise you, the end of your exchange year does not mean the end of your exchange. It is the beginning.
The YES community is the family that will always share those unique experiences. Even though the YES itself is a small window in time, the bridges and community we build will last. We do what we do for you, the participants at the YES, because we know that friendships across the globe is what will make a better world.
The Experience of a Lifetime
It starts by deciding to join. Come and explore your own innovative ideas of making an impact in this world. See how music can send a powerful message. Experience how playing games connects us, and use art to express who you are. Join me for a swim in Werbellinsee lake, play a game of basketball – or quidditch? Listen to the inspiring stories of speakers on stage, and the unique thoughts of your friends. Be part of pushing the boundaries: Living out the dream of performing or sharing your opinions in front of others. Join the YES family and create an experience that will shed light on the memories and experiences in your life. The YES is only as incredible as we make it. But as I said, I would gift it to every exchange student, because in my experience: It is the greatest.
