On August 6, 2023, AFS LA held a double orientation event and beach party in Hermosa Beach. In the morning, counselors Natalie (USA to Italy) and Jimmy (USA to Japan) did a pre-departure orientation for Lukas (USA to Finland, headed out the very next day!). In the afternoon, we added a Returnee Welcome Home Orientation for Amanda and Sabine (both USA to France) and Tess (USA to Italy).
Parents also attended in the afternoon, so the returnee parents could give tips to the outbound student’s parents, along with tips from Tori our AFS LA Sending Coordinator.
After that we had a Beach Party from 4-7 so all the AFS LA leadership team and South Bay volunteers could meet the students. Weather was great as usual, returning students were happy with their experiences, and the volunteers had a chance to catch up with what’s happening with AFS and meet the students.
In addition to these students, AFS LA also has two students currently overseas on Winter Departure programs: Amiya in Japan, and Amelia in New Zealand.
Now on to the 2023-2024 AFS cycle!