“The Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program was definitely a life changing experience,” says Alaa. “I had lots of 1 and expectations when I left Jordan and headed to Chicago to become a YES program particpant."

    During it, Alaa had the chance to be a part of two wonderful host families. “I 2a lot by living with my host families,” says Alaa “The first one was a single older person that 3me to most of American cultures. My second family was kind enough to have me stay at their house and 4 me like one of their own kids. I am 5 both host families forever.”

    6Alaa learned a lot from her host families, she realized that 7 a new culture and new family comes with its own growing pains.

    “There was a huge 8 between me and my first host mom,” says Alaa. “She worked all the time,9 I was expecting her to interact with more peole. But that was too 10She goes her own way”

    “The education system we have in Jordan is quite different from here, so the 11 to the education system was hard too. I went to Schaumburg High School, where everything was so organized and the teachers were so nice. I started an Arabic program12the gifted students in the school,” states Alaa. With my assistance, they13to know the beauty of my language. By the end of the year, I received Christmas card from the students with their names and 14 in Arabic. To my 15in no time they 16 were able to talk to me in Arabic without difficulty.”

    “My YES program was soon17” Alaa said. “But it had a deep18on me.” Thanks to the YES program, Alaa had conquered fears.19 new skills, and finally changed the course of her life forever. “I don't let anything get in the20of achieving my dreams.” says Alaa.