By Tamires Marques, J-1 Intern from Brazil I love when dreams come true. And knowing the Yosemite National Park was one of them! Yosemite is one of the most paradisiacal places in the world! If you do a quick search on the most beautiful places to see in California, this park is sure to be at the top of the …
Supporting Exchange Programs in Washington DC | Advocacy Day March 8 2018
The Alliance Abroad team helped support international exchange during a rally in Washington DC on March 8. We were particularly happy to hear Congressman Henry “Hank” Johnson’s (D-GA) spirited defense of these programs: “Department of State international exchange programs are a proven and cost-effective way for the United States to remain internationally competitive, develop American leaders, and promote American values. …
Leveling the Playing Field
Celebrating the Achievements of African Americans The month of February has been designated as Black History Month. It has become a central theme in American culture, recognizing and celebrating the achievements of African Americans. The early origins began as “Negro History Week,” by distinguished historian, Cater Woodson, and other prominent and influential African Americans. The intent was to shine the …
What’s Presidents Day All About?
It’s fascinating when you search the meaning or genesis of something. No matter how much you think you know, there’s always something new to learn. President’s Day is actually not the official name of the holiday celebrated the third Monday in February. It’s still officially “Washington’s Birthday.” “Presidents’ Day is an American holiday celebrated on the third Monday in February. …
A Legacy of Love and Service: Commemorating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
You’ll be moved – maybe even to tears – when you read a message written by Dr. Martin Luther King’s wife. Coretta Scott King talks about her husband’s dreams for racial equality and about the principles of freedom, justice, tolerance and equality that not only define Dr. King’s dream, they exemplify our nation’s “noblest principles.” As cultural exchange advocates and …
What a Wonderful Year!
It’s been a wonderful year for all of us at Alliance Abroad thanks to our incredible network of employees, partners, participants and host employers. Although we faced some tough headwinds from proposed changes to J-1 visa programs, we banned together as a cultural exchange community. United in our support of exchange programs, we’ve shared amazing stories, demonstrating the positive impact …
A Holiday Party Poem – Celebrating the Spirit of the Season!
The holidays are a time to celebrate time-honored traditions and gather with family and friends but for thousands of international exchange students, it won’t be possible. Our founder, Victoria Lynden, reminded us that for many of our J-1 participants, it’s the first time many of them will be very far away from families and loved ones. So she asked us …
An Award Winning Award
Beyond Tourism to Making a Difference in the World. Two years ago at the annual World Youth and Student Travel Conference (WYSTC) held in Cape Town, South Africa, we came up with an idea. Why not provide an award to a deserving WYSTC volunteer? We think the long hours and dedication deserve something. What started as an impromptu idea has …
Good Samaritans: Helping Hands During Hurricane Harvey
When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, Kush Sutaria, a J-1 intern student, was on a sales call in San Antonio, fortunately out of the fury of the storm’s eye. As it turns out, being in San Antonio proved fortuitous in other ways. Kush was exactly in the right place to be able to assist FEMA and U.S. military with hurricane disaster …
Feeling Thankful
I feel like a Thanksgiving turkey; I’m stuffed. Along with my Alliance Abroad family, we celebrated Thanksgiving, remembering the many reasons we have to be thankful. But besides the full stomachs we got from feasting on succulent turkey, delicious side dishes and decadent desserts people brought to share, we concluded our celebration with full and thankful hearts. Our founder and CEO, Victoria …