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The AFS ExchangeAuthor: AFS-USA
In each episode of The AFS Exchange, we sit down with AFS-USA host families, students, volunteers, and educators to hear about the profound impact of their AFS experiences. Join us as we explore the knowledge and skills needed to help create a more just and peaceful world. As a non-profit organization, AFS-USA has been empowering people to become globally engaged citizens for over 75 years. With programs in 45 countries and hosting students from 90 countries, AFS-USA has been creating life-changing intercultural experiences for generations. Language: en-us Genres: Education, Language Learning, Places & Travel, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Decades of Boats, Buses, and Boarding Passes
Episode 3
Wednesday, 8 April, 2026
Welcome back to The AFS Exchange! We are continuing our series highlighting the people who keep the AFS engine running: our dedicated volunteers. In order for a student to get from their home country to their host community, AFS depends on the support of Travel Volunteers who guide students through bustling airports, navigate tight layovers, and step in to help when a connection is missed.In this episode, we’re exploring the evolution of the Travel Volunteer role, starting nearly 75 years ago. We begin with a journey through the history of AFS student travel- from 1950s ocean liners and cross-country bus trips to the smartphones and streamlined arrival journeys of today.Then, we’re joined by two expert Travel Volunteers, Fevzi Caglarsu and Tyler Henry, from the National Council Travel Advisory Group. They share what it’s actually like to be the “first face” a student sees in the U.S., how they navigate the unexpected with creative flexibility, and why this high-energy, fast-paced role is one of the most rewarding ways to support the AFS mission.Meet the Guests:Fevzi Caglarsu: Dallas Area TeamTyler Henry: Georgia Area TeamIn this episode, we discuss:How student travel evolved from ocean liners and long-haul buses to modern global flight networks.What Travel Volunteers actually do on the ground (or on the couch).How volunteers think on their feet to keep students safe and moving.How you can join the Travel Volunteer network and what motivated these volunteers to come back year after year.How to get involved:Volunteer Nationally: Current volunteers can learn about national leadership roles via Help & Learning for Volunteers or by emailing askafs@afsusa.org.Not a volunteer yet? Head to afsusa.org/volunteer to get started.More from AFS-USA: 🏠Host a Student | ✈️Study Abroad | 🤝Volunteer | 🏫For Educators | 📧Contact the Show | 🎧Collections
