AFS: My Ticket to a cultural experience!

        Right now, I am in the process of applying to go to and study in New Zealand with AFS Intercultural programs.  I love to travel and learn about different people’s culture, and am ecstatic about this opportunity.  AFS Intercultural programs are a nonprofit organization that helps students study abroad during high school and works to provide international and intercultural learning experiences.  Studying abroad in New Zealand with AFS, I will live with a Kiwi (a native of New Zealand) host family, and get the chance to experience a local high school.   I am really excited about learning about the vast biodiversity of both the island's wildlife!  While there I will learn a great amount about New Zealand culture.  A major part of a high school abroad program is the exchange of cultures.  I can’t wait to share my American heritage with my host family, but am even more thrilled to experience their culture.  When I return to the states, I look forward to sharing this newly found culture with my community, in turn educating other people about the culture of New Zealand.  I will leave in January, 2014 and spend almost a year there.  By spending a year with a family from New Zealand, I will be completely immersed in their culture and learn SO much!  I can’t wait! :D