You were a participant of an AFS program in Honduras. How did this experience influence you to get to where you are today?
My semester in Honduras was one of the most impactful experiences in my life. It sparked my passion for travel and intercultural learning and influenced my decision to study International Relations in at Brown University. From the moment I returned from my AFS program I knew that I wanted to explore the world and continue building the skills to become a more globally competent citizen. I now live in New York City and work at the AFS national office. Through my work with AFS, I am able to help other students embark on these life-changing adventures.
Justin riding camels with AFS students by the Pyramids of Giza during the 2017 Global Prep Egypt Program
What about AFS inspired you to want to join the team?
The AFS mission which is to “work towards a more just and peaceful world.” The mission is what originally inspired me to study abroad with AFS and is what has brought me back to join the AFS team as an adult.
I believe that today more than ever it is critical that students are engaged in a meaningful way with the global community.
How do you utilize your International Relations studies in your work today?
A critical component of studying International Relations was understanding that culture is much deeper than what you see on the surface. This lesson influences the work that my team and I do at AFS every day when engaging with students, parents, and our international partners. It’s important that when preparing for an AFS program - as well as during their program - that participants can think critically about their experience, about culture, and to be exposed to the views and perspectives of others.
Justin with a group of AFS students and volunteers at the Mosque of Amr ibn al-As in Egypt.
In what ways do you assist the operations of the outbound programs at AFS?
As the Manager of Customer Experience, I am involved in a variety of aspects related to our outbound operations. I work closely with our team of Study Abroad Specialists, Visa Specialists, and our Travel Team to ensure that students and parents have a seamless customer experience.
My team works with students from the moment they express interest in studying abroad with AFS, up until they get on the plane to embark on their AFS program. Once the students are abroad there is support staff both in their host country and here at AFS-USA to support participants and their parents throughout their program.
What initially sparked your passion and desire for traveling?
Growing up in a small town I always wanted to experience something more. I had never had the opportunity to travel abroad and I also had developed a real love for the Spanish language. In my high school we had an AFS Club and once I attended my first meeting I knew this was something I wanted to be a part of. I quickly did more research and opened an application with AFS. Once I returned from my AFS program I truly developed “the travel bug” and have continued to add new destinations to my list each year.
Speaking with volunteers about study abroad at the 2018 AFS National Volunteer Assembly
Why should students choose AFS-USA?
Students should choose AFS because it is so much more than a study abroad organization. Our programs provide students with an opportunity to become fully immersed in a new culture and gain important skills to make them more globally competent citizens. We provide students with intercultural learning tools to help them think critically and gain the most from their experience.
With 70 years of experience, AFS is a leader in high school exchange. The safety of our participants is our number one priority and we have a long-established international network of AFS partners and volunteers which allows us to provide an excellent level of support.
Participants have described their AFS experience as “transformational” and as a returnee I can speak to how accurate this description is. We offer quality programs that a safe, impactful, and transform the lives of students.
What do you hope students take away from AFS programs?
My hope is that each AFS participant returns from program with increased self-confidence, independence, global awareness and cultural competence. Oh, and let’s not forget - friends, family, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Justin with a group of AFS students in Budapest, Hungary during the 2018 Global Prep Hungary Program
Why do you think it’s important for individuals to travel and experience new cultures?
In an increasingly globalized world it is critical that individuals gain a better understanding of the world and their place in it. Globally competent thinkers can relate to others and understand diverse perspectives. Studying abroad gives students the opportunity to challenge themselves, learn to overcome obstacles, develop critical thinking skills, and learn another language. All of these skills not only prepare students for college and beyond, but also gives them a distinct advantage compared to their counterparts that did not have a study abroad experience.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel to me means traveling with the intention to learn from and contribute to whichever destination you are visiting. Travel is much more meaningful when you step outside of your comfort zone, engage with locals, and learn from their perspectives, as well as share your own. This allows not only you, but those you interact with, to grow from your intercultural exchange.
How do you hope to improve the student experience on AFS programs in the years to come?
My hope is that we continue to offer quality programs that transform students into global citizens. The key to this starts with preparing our students before they embark on a study abroad program. Preparing our students and equipping them with the tools to engage with the local cultural in a meaningful way will help them to be successful AFS Ambassadors that truly transform during their study abroad experience.
