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Acknowledgment

AFS India extends its deepest gratitude to all participants, their families, educators, and our partner countries for their incredible support in making the 2023 exchange program a resounding success. Your dedication has enabled 38 students to embark on life-changing journeys, fostering cross-cultural understanding and creating lasting connections. The inspiring impact stories captured in this yearbook illustrate the tremendous growth and experiences each student has embraced.

Together, we are not only building bridges across diverse cultures but also inspiring future generations to value global unity and friendship. Your invaluable contributions and unwavering commitment to this enriching program are sincerely appreciated. We are truly grateful for the role each of you has played in this journey.

On behalf of everyone at AFS Intercultural Programs India, we extend our best wishes for your future endeavors and hope that these experiences continue to influence and enrich your lives.

Azeem Khan

St. Paul Higher Secondary School, Indore

Uttara Vorkady Creative School, Bangalore

Short Term Program 2023

Vaishnavi Mahajan Queen's College, Indore

Shrusti Patel Delhi Public School, Indore

Harini Sri Ravi Shree Sarasswathi Vidhyaah Mandheer School, Coimbatore

Anvita Agrawal Delhi Public School, Indore

Gunjan Singhania Daly College, Indore

Pragnay Bhatia The Chintels School, Kanpur

Shreya Agrawal St Paul Higher Secondary School, Indore

Bhavya Soni Shri Ram Centennial School, Dehradun

Ria Agrawal

Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior

Aanya Surana

Lakshmipat Singhania Academy, Kolkata

Khanak Patel I B Patel English School, A d

Arnav Srinath G D Goenka Public School Indore

Prisha Patel

Lakshmipat Singhania Academy, Kolkata

Rajat Sharma

The Emerald Heights International School, Indore

Ratnesh Mahajan

The Emerald heights International School, Indore

Hetvi Seth

Anand Vidya Vihar, Vadodara

Stuti Ingle

The Lawrence School, Lovedale, Ooty

Chandan Goyal Birla Public School, Kishangarh

Atharva Chhabra The Emerald Heights International School, Indore

Nayonika Bendi Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior

Armaan Singh Chahal Yadavindra Public School, Patiala

Toshani Mukherjee SelaQui International School, Dehradun

Swasti Tiwari Daly College, Indore

Aashvi Sojatia Daly College, Indore

Rishabh Pokharna Daly College, Indore

Ayshini Bharat Delhi Public School, Indore

Rashi Gupta Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya, Gwalior

Bhavishya Jain

Apeejay School, Pitam Pura, New Delhi

AzeemKhan St.PaulHigher SecondarySchool,Indore

YEARProgram2023

HOST SCHOOL: AICHI KEISEI HIGH SCHOOL, INAZAWA

The exchange program experience in Japan was transformative and akin to living in an anime world The journey offered significant personal growth and cultural immersion, teaching valuable lessons through Kintsugi, Ikigai, Zen gardens, and Bushido Achievements included mastering Japanese, becoming the youngest chairperson of NUMUN 2024 at Nagoya University, and gaining clarity on future career goals A visit to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park deeply impacted the understanding of global peace and communication. Overall, the experience highlighted the profound benefits of cultural exchange programs, fostering empathy and expanding horizons, with gratitude towards AFS India for facilitating this life-changing journey.

UttaraVorkady CreativeSchool, Bangalore

YEARProgram2023

HOST SCHOOL: LYCEE DU SACRE COEUR, RHONE

The experience of studying abroad in France has been deeply enriching and surreal. It has allowed for personal growth, authentic self-expression, and the creation of lasting friendships Despite challenges like the language barrier and adapting to a new culture, the support from a kind host family and an AFS coordinator has been invaluable The journey has included overcoming loneliness, adjusting to French cuisine, and gaining confidence This opportunity has broadened the understanding of global citizenship and France's economic situation, offering insights and experiences beyond those available in India

VaishnaviMahajan Queen'sCollege,Indore

HOST SCHOOL: ISTITUTO SCOLASTICO PALMER STPItaly

As an AFS exchange student in Italy, I had the opportunity to share India's culture, change misconceptions, and forge deep connections. My host family and local coordinator were incredibly supportive, and despite challenges, I grew through the experience. Volunteering and interacting with locals enriched my journey, leaving me with lifelong lessons and cherished memories.

ShrustiPatel DelhiPublicSchool, Indore

STPItaly

HOST SCHOOL: IIS PACINOTTIARCHIMEDE

Though it was a small trip of not even two months, experiences like taking the flights alone or buying food and being on my own, each and every little step of my journey was completely different from the life I had in India, and it completely transformed my life.

HariniSriRavi

ShreeSarasswathi VidhyaahMandheerSchool, Coimbatore

STPItaly

HOST SCHOOL: ISTITUTO SCOLASTICO NERVI - SEVERINI

This opportunity helped me to boost my confidence and selfreliance I've learnt to manage my own daily lives independently. New culture and environment enhanced my ability to adapt to different situations and challenges and it also helped me to enhance my linguistic abilities and fluency My host family played a crucial role in my program by providing a loving home environment and this helped me to gain a deeper understanding of local culture, traditions and lifestyle

AnvitaAgrawal DelhiPublicSchool, Indore

STPDenmark

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM

EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

Namaste! I am Anvita Agrawal, a participant of the four-week cultural exchange program in Denmark. This program significantly contributed to my personal growth Experiencing sudden changes in nearly every aspect whether it was the weather, language, people, or surroundings helped me become more independent Most importantly, it taught me how to navigate challenges while appreciating the incredible moments. This combination has truly made me a better person. Thank you for this amazing experience!

GunjanSinghania DalyCollege,Indore

STPDenmark

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

My stay at Ranum Efterskole College in Denmark was truly transformative The diverse cultural interactions, engaging activities like sailing, and the challenges of adapting to a new lifestyle and educational setup broadened my perspective and enriched my understanding of the world

PragnayBhatia TheChintelsSchool, Kanpur

STPDenmark

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

Denmark was an eye-opener for me I got to experience how things work abroad, be it studies, activities, and everything else. I got to live independently, and represent my country in events. This was truly a once in a lifetime experience and I am grateful to have gotten this opportunity

ShreyaAgrawal ScindiaKanyaVidyalaya, Gwalior

STPDenmark

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

During my month at Ranum Efterskole in Denmark, I immersed myself in a unique boarding school environment, exploring an education system focused on creativity, independence, and teamwork I engaged in outdoor adventures and cultural workshops, building meaningful connections with international students. This experience boosted my adaptability and intercultural communication skills, fostering personal growth and a deeper appreciation for diversity

BhavyaSoni ShriRamCentennial School,Dehradun

STPDenmark

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM

EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

My experience in Denmark was transformative, learning new skills and meeting people from different countries and cultures. This programme made me independent , confident and fearless to try new and harder things

RiaAgrawal ScindiaKanyaVidyalaya, Gwalior

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

My exchange experience in Denmark was truly life-changing Initially, my parents and I were worried about how I would manage on my own, but I did it! Taking part in the AFS Exchange Program was one of the best decisions I ever made I made friends, learned new languages, and discovered their study habits I adapted to a new culture and returned with unforgettable memories and deep affection for the people of Denmark I was in tears while leaving Denmark. Thank you to my parents, AFS India, and my school for this incredible opportunity!

AanyaSurana LakshmipatSinghania Academy,Kolkata

HOST SCHOOL: SZOBOSZLÓI ÚTI ÁLTALÁNOS ISKOLA STPHungary

My month on the exchange program was truly unforgettable! This experience taught me so much, boosting my confidence and independence I cherished our walks through the streets, exploring the vibrant city, and I developed a deep bond with my host family. I find myself missing every aspect of Hungary its culture, its warmth, and all the little moments that made this journey so special

KhanakPatel I.BPatelEnglishSchool, Anand

STPHungary

HOST SCHOOL: SZOBOSZLÓI ÚTI

ÁLTALÁNOS ISKOLA, HUNGARY

It was a life changing experience for me I got a chance to make new friends from different countries. I really got attached to Debrecen. The best part for me was that I got two host families, and they all were extremely nice to me Together we used to play, sing or sometimes watch movies. The teachers in school were also nice and supportive The program made me a better person, who is now more confident and empathetic

ArnavSrinath GDGoenkaPublic SchoolIndore

STPHungary

HOST SCHOOL: SZOBOSZLÓI ÚTI

ÁLTALÁNOS ISKOLA

The Homestay and Hungary Trip honestly was a one of a kind experience for me. Even though it was for one month, it had a huge impact on me I made hundreds of memorable experiences and many friends from so many countries My host families were also really amazing and they taught me a lot of things Overall I’m glad I got the chance to go for this program because I knew I wasn’t getting another opportunity like this.

PrishaPatel LakshmipatSinghania Academy,Kolkata

HOST SCHOOL: SZOBOSZLÓI ÚTI ÁLTALÁNOS ISKOLA STPHungary

I enjoyed a fantastic month in Hungary, where I embraced the local culture and practiced the language. I forged meaningful friendships and visited stunning historical sites This exchange program was a life-changing opportunity that deepened my cultural understanding, enhanced my personal skills, and enriched my professional journey It helped me build valuable global connections and left a lasting impression on both myself and the communities I engaged with

RajatSharma

TheEmeraldHeights InternationalSchool,Indore

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK STPDenmark

RatneshMahajan

TheEmeraldHeights InternationalSchool,Indore

STPDenmark

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

I embraced Danish culture through new friendships, traditional celebrations, and language classes. Exploring coastal towns and sharing laughter with my host family made my AFS experience unforgettable.

HetviSeth AnandVidyaVihar, Vadodara

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

The opportunity to visit Denmark and catch a glimpse of the various cultures brought together by students my age from all over the world is an experience I hold dear to my heart The memories made, stories shared, and bonds created between myself and others have changed me for the better. It has given me another story that I can proudly and excitedly share for the rest of my life. Choosing Denmark especially impacted my view of teenagers around the world, showing me how similar yet different we all are at the same time

StutiIngle TheLawrenceSchool, Lovedale,Ooty

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK STPDenmark

My month in Denmark was transformative, immersing me in rich traditions and values. Living with students from around the world, I forged deep connections, explored historic sites, and learned about sustainability, all of which broadened my worldview and inspired personal growth

ChandanGoyal BirlaPublicSchool, Kishangarh

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM

EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK STPDenmark

The AFS intercultural exchange program in Denmark was a lifechanging experience. From learning about Danish culture to meeting people from around the world and discovering their cultures, it was truly prodigious I also learned new skills such as water sports, event organization, and art design The best part was the marketing classes, where we were taught how to prepare ourselves to manage a business in the future. This program helped me add the values that a global citizen needs

AtharvaChhabra TheEmeraldHeights InternationalSchool,Indore

STPSpain

HOST SCHOOL: UNAMUNO COLEGIO Y RESIDENCIA, MALAGA

Studying at Unamuno Colegio in Málaga deepened my understanding of Spanish culture, history, and language. Exploring sites like the Alcazaba and the Picasso Museum, along with weekend trips to Granada and Sevilla, enriched my experience

The local cuisine, from tapas to fresh seafood, made this cultural adventure truly memorable

NayonikaBendi ScindiaKanyaVidyalaya, Gwalior

HOST SCHOOL: RAJA SOLIMAN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY HIGH SCHOOL, MANILA STPPhilippians

I am a student from Scindia Kanya Vidyalaya,I have successfully completed a 4-week student exchange program in Manila, Philippines, from August 18, 2023, to September 14, 2023 This educational opportunity took place at The Raja Soliman Science and Technology High School in Manila, providing me with valuable cultural experiences and educational enrichment. I pursued a diverse academic curriculum and engaged in cross-cultural interactions with local students and faculty members I also explored the vibrant culture of the Philippines, participating in cultural events, community service initiatives, and local festivals I fostered connections and friendships with students of different nationalities, including Japanese, Belgian, Canadian, German, Turkish, Italian, and Panamanian, creating memories that will last a lifetime

NiyatiArora

TheEmeraldHeights InternationalSchool,Indore

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

I was enveloped in a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and smells that sparked my curiosity. The sense of togetherness present in the community is somewhat akin to that of a family Living in Denmark allowed me to immerse myself in Scandinavian culture, traditions, and lifestyle. The AFS Exchange Program encouraged me to overcome my social anxiety and open myself up to new people. It helped me gain a deeper perspective on others and their values and cultures. I, for one, became much more selfreliant and open-minded than ever before.

SuryakshiDeo RajkumarCollege, Raipur

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM

EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

Participating in the AFS Intercultural program in Denmark was a life changing experience that will forever hold a special place in my heart. My journey abroad taught me the power of adaptability and the beauty of embracing a whole new culture

UmikaBhalla DalyCollege,Indore

STPDenmark

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM

EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

My journey in the AFS programme to Denmark was extremely memorable! I stayed in Ranum Efterskole and met so many new friends! I learnt a lot about Danish culture and made lifelong friendships! I also got the opportunity to stay with a host family for one of the weekends! They truly made me feel at home

SonakshiKalura Tula'sInternational School,Dehradun

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK STPDenmark

My journey to Denmark was an unforgettable chapter in my life, filled with learning, laughter, and lasting friendships. It was an experience that broadened my horizons, enriched my understanding of the world, and left an indelible mark on my heart

HasratChhina InvictusInternational School,Amritsar

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

My favorite moments from the exchange program were simple yet memorable. Enchanting evening walks with Tessa often led us to the local supermarket for snacks and laughter An exhilarating ice hockey game with Umika, Plummy, and Moji filled us with energy from the crowd. I’ll always cherish the delightful rebellion of enjoying ice cream on a freezing day with Umika. Cozy evenings with my roommates and friends also deepened our bonds. These little adventures wove together an unforgettable experience

AnujJoshi AcademicWorldSchool, Bemetara

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK STPDenmark

Reflecting on my time at Ranum Efterskole College through AFS India fills me with gratitude for the unforgettable experiences. Welcomed into a vibrant community of over 25 nationalities, I enriched my academic journey with diverse courses and explored Denmark’s landscapes and culture Adventures like wakeboarding and bonding with friends deepened my connections. These experiences, along with casual chats over Danish candy, fostered lasting friendships and insights into Jutland’s culture This lifechanging opportunity offered by AFS India will be cherished forever!

KrishaSharma YadavindraPublic School,Patiala

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

This program significantly enhanced my sense of responsibility, as it was my first extended time away from my parents. Especially the Christmas celebrations and the team outings gave me an opportunity to build long lasting memories. It was an enriching experience overall, allowing me to forge amazing friendships and immerse myself in different cultures. I truly look forward to joining another program like this in the future!

Rannvijay Khandelwal

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM

This was truly a life changing experience for me as I got to engage with people from all across the world. It helped in honing my skills and building everlasting memories. The exposure to a completely new culture and a different education system gave me a new perspective of the world. I am grateful to ASF India for extending this opportunity to me.

SwastiTiwari DalyCollege,Indore

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK STPDenmark

The program was truly a life-changing experience for me Initially, I struggled to adapt to the new culture and faced several language barriers. However, over time, I became more comfortable with the people, which contributed to the program's success I loved learning about their culture while sharing my own, exchanging insights and experiences I’m still in touch with the friends I made in Denmark, and we talk frequently

AashviSojatia DalyCollege,Indore

STPDenmark

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

It was the best exchange ever! I was fortunate to experience the northern lights and bond with people from more than 15 countries. It made me contemplate that we all are a big family with different traditions. The education there was very broadening and enlightening. I have evolved more as a person due to the time spent here

ArmaanSingh Chahal YadavindraPublicSchool, Patiala

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK STPDenmark

One of the first things I learned was that Danish people are known for being among the happiest in the world. They are very friendly, and their education system is quite different from India’s classrooms are technologically advanced and learning is more enjoyable.

Toshani Mukherjee SelaQuiInternational School,Dehradun

STPDenmark

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

My experience was awesome. I stayed at Ranum Efterskole where I made many friends. We went for small trips to Skagen and Copenhagen where we went shopping and had a lot of fun I learnt a lot of new things like a language- Danish, and skating, etc It was fascinating to know that people there eat cold food It was truly an extraordinary experience to live in snowy Denmark for almost 1 month.

RashiGupta ScindiaKanyaVidyalaya, Gwalior

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

I had a transformative and enriching experience during my four-week cultural exchange program in Denmark I was warmly welcomed at Ranum Efterskole College in Copenhagen, Denmark where I attended classes and worked on job application forms I also had the opportunity to explore the local culture, visiting landmarks such as the Little Mermaid statue I enjoyed my trips to Aalborg, Skagen, and particularly Copenhagen I also participated in cultural events, including a performance showcasing Indian culture The program concluded with a week-long trip to Copenhagen. Throughout my stay, I embraced the values of empathy, compassion, and leadership. This exchange program appears to have provided me with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Danish culture and history.

BhavishyaJain ApeejaySchool,Pitam Pura,NewDelhi

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK STPDenmark

This cultural exchange trip to Denmark has truly opened up a new world for me; it was an incredible experience. I hope to participate in more programs like this through AFS India, as they align with my future career aspirations. Previously, I was quite shy and lacked confidence when speaking, but this program has made a significant difference I would definitely recommend it to all my friends!

RishabhPokharna

DalyCollege,Indore

STPDenmark

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM

EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

The trip was an exciting and valuable experience I learned many new things, made great friends, and gained important life skills, such as selfsufficiency It had a lasting impact, boosting my confidence and independence

AyshiniBharat DelhiPublicSchool, Indore

STPDenmark

HOST SCHOOL: RANUM EFTERSKOLE COLLEGE, DENMARK

It felt like I entered a different world. I was nervous but also incredibly excited. Learning new things in class was refreshing, and I will always remember my supportive and welcoming teachers, the interesting cuisine, and the museums filled with rich history. I made friends that I will cherish for life Denmark will always hold a special place in my heart, and all the credit goes to AFS India. Thank you for giving me this opportunity I will always be grateful.