Unbeknownst to many students, New Trier hosts five foreign exchange students each year through the American Field Service Intercultural Programs, or AFS for short. The organization started as a volunteer service that provided medical support in World War I. Today, it provides opportunities for students to study internationally. Volunteers work with students to place them in appropriate homes and schools, along with ensuring that their transition is as smooth as possible. Last year, my family decided to host an exchange student from Portugal named Francisca for the 2024-25 school year, and it is a decision that we will never regret. Entertainment & Opinions Editor Mara Saltzman wrote the story. Read More - Link in Bio