The AFSer's Guide to Getting There: Vol. III, issue 2

As you look for ways to make your student exchange possible, check out a few of the scholarship opportunities in this issue. Also read suggestions from AFS students on how you might approach your parents with the idea of studying abroad. Remember, now is the time to apply for programs departing summer/fall 2008. Complete the full application by December 31st, 2007 to receive the Early Application Discount.

How to Approach Your Parents
So you've decided you want to become an exchange student! Maybe your parents are fully supportive and ready to help you make this a reality...great! Or maybe your situation is not so perfect. Do you parents think you're dreaming an impossible dream?You might consider first presenting them with all of the facts. A future AFSer named Kendra compiled an (amazingly thorough) 10 page packet that helped convince her father she was ready for a study abroad experience in Italy. This included things like a heartfelt letter to her father about Italy and why she was ready, Map of the Country, How she could contribute and more... visit the following link in the title above for complete details of how or contact: afsbaltimorechapter@yahoo.com or reply to this blog.

Cargill Global Exchange Fund Scholarship
If you live in a community near a Cargill facility, you could be eligible for a scholarship of up to $4,000. AFS is once again partnering with Cargill in offering year-and semester-long educational exchange scholarships in Latin America and Asia.

Student nominations and applications are due by January 8th. (You can even nominate yourself!) To apply. and get more information about eligibility, send message to afsbaltimorechapter@yahoo.com or call (800) AFS-INFO. You may also click on the title link above or reply to this blog.

Focus on Thailand
An AFSer named Maryn had this to say about her experience in Thailand:"Within AFS Thailand there's an incredible network and constant dialog between the host family, the advisor, and the organization. The camps were great, we got to do a lot of activities, and I got to experience a lot. Dive in and take chances, try new foods, try to speak Thai, make new friends, don't turn down opportunity. I would seriously recommend foreign exchange to anyone who seriously wants to do it and will put forth effort. It opens eyes. I learned things that I am still finding out, and so much about human interaction and the kind of person I want to be. I wouldn't trade the experience for anything."

Fundraising for the Holidays: Parent's Night Out
Here's a fundraising idea from the AFS-USA bulletin board:

Offer one night (or several nights) in December for parents to let you watch their kids. This is a great chance for parents to do some Christmas shopping.

Items needed:

• A place to hold the event
• Toys, games, and activities for the kids

Time required:

• 1 hour preparation - 4 hours baby sitting

Amount you can expect to raise:

• $100 - $200

How to make it happen:

1. Advertise your event with signs and posters.
2. Collect games and toys for the kids and get a friend or two to help you in case there are more kids than you can handle.
3. Be at the advertised location well ahead of time. Some parents may be early.
4. Let the parents know ahead of time how much you will be charging per hour for each child. Or take a free-will donation.
5. Be sure to specify the latest time that the parents can pick up their kids.

AFS offers high school students a summer, semester, or year abroad in Thailand & other countries, as well as an 18+ community service semester program.

For More Tips , ideas & General Information, visit: www.afs.org/usa or contact: afsbaltimorechapter@yahoo.com or 1-800-AFS-INFO

You may also just Comment to this Blog and we will be more than happy to help with your questions.