Home » Scholarship Program » Student Testimonials
Student Testimonials
ASSIST Scholars join us from many backgrounds and they attend endlessly unique schools. But, all of them agree: their year abroad is life-changing.
What Our Students Say about Their Life-Changing ASSIST Year
Baia
ASSIST Country: Georgia
Perkiomen School
“My words cannot describe the adventure and experience I had in the USA because of ASSIST. In Georgia, a lot of people I’ve met and had conversations with mentioned that I came back as an even more grown-up, independent, and confident individual, which is a sign of progress and self-development.
Definitely, my worldview, perspectives, and knowledge widened, and I can’t help but appreciate what I was able to get and give.
The friendships I have made with multi-diverse and multi-talented people made it hard for me to say the last words before departure. An amazing, supportive, and wonderful community I was part of allowed me to be my authentic self, let me connect with people, and share my positive energy with everyone. My mind is filled with unforgettable memories with them, and we will continue to be in touch for the rest of our lives.
I have a lot of highlights from my year:
- At the dance recital, I shared two national Georgian dances in my traditional dress with the Perkiomen School Audience. I performed in a variety show. It was wonderful to participate in a Cultural Festival, where I shared my culture, some traditional dishes, Georgian history and invited them to visit my homeland.
- I was the first Georgian student at Perkiomen, and I was delighted to show and share Georgian spirit at its finest level.
- I became an honorable member of the Cum Laude Society.
- I received a distinction from Artificial Intelligence Institute because of the capstone project I created and worked on during robotics club. The system that I made with my teammates was then introduced at a STEM exhibition and conference and became installed in the school’s Farm 365.
- I participated in varsity swimming. Challenging for me as a winter extracurricular activity? Yes, but in the end, all my hard work and dedication got appreciated. I received the most improved player status which was a great honor for me.
I appreciate everything greatly! I am forever grateful!
Caesar
ASSIST Country: Sweden
Salisbury School
“So, why ASSIST?
This year so far has been one of the best years of my life. I have experienced a new culture, new traditions and met so many new friends. This wouldn’t have been possible without ASSIST.
ASSIST connected me with one of the finest academic institutions in the U.S. Here at Salisbury School, I’m able to succeed academically, athletically and socially and I’ve learned so many new skills.
This is a year I will never forget.”
Aureja
ASSIST Country: Lithuania
Perkiomen School
“ASSIST has inspired me to become a global citizen not only by scratching more and more countries off of my map, but also by becoming a part of the global ASSIST community, joining in on global projects as well as sharing my own culture. All of this has translated into me being in the IB program of Kaunas Jesuit High School, volunteering with ASSIST social media, UNICEF Lithuania and having friends from all over the world.”
Nina
ASSIST Country: Germany
Bryn Mawr School
“It was my dream to study abroad. I love meeting new people and learning new cultures and traditions.
I really love the ASSIST community, they’re literally like my second family.
I want to encourage you to give it a shot because it’s really, really worth it!”
Lucie
ASSIST Country: Czech Republic
Gould Academy
“I am experiencing best days of my life in my ASSIST school. I am very happy with my school and I don’t think there is a school that would make a better fit,” “The school year started with a great New Student Orientation Trip, where I got to meet my lovely roommate and many more friends. One of my other highlights is choosing mountain biking as a fall sport. My team is full of wonderful people that are willing to try new things, get better and be kind to others. My ASSIST school is very different from my home school. Teachers are trying their best to help you with everything and classes are most of the time really interesting. To people that are considering ASSIST…DO IT! ASSIST made my dream come true. I’m now in school that is a perfect match for me. The biggest advice I can give you, is to be yourself and believe in yourself.”
Petra
ASSIST Country: Slovakia
Phillips Academy Andover
“I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities, growth, and invaluable experiences that your gift has afforded me.”
Zhenya
ASSIST Country: Ukraine
Salem Academy
“I always wanted to do an exchange year and going with ASSIST was definitely the right decision. Not only are you given the opportunity to be at the leading schools around America, but you build lifelong friendships and relationships and become part of a big family.”
On a highlight of her ASSIST year: “I attended the Youth and Government NC Conference as a part of Salem Academy’s delegation. It’s a national YMCA program that provides youth with the opportunity to learn about—and experience—government policies and methodologies. I won 3 out of 4 hearings and made it to an All-Star round as a leading attorney for the 1st Amendment violation case. At the closing ceremony I was presented with the highest award an attorney can achieve at YAG conference – All-star Round Champion.”
Hedi
ASSIST Country: Hungary
St. Timothy's School
“I found the application process both challenging and enjoyable, especially the interview part where you can meet with some very nice people from ASSIST. There can only be a positive outcome if you decide to apply. Do not hesitate because there is absolutely nothing to lose in just applying.”
On ASSIST Member School, St. Timothy’s School: “The school system is essentially centered around students, for students. Teachers and both students truly value your contribution and different perspectives to class discussions.”
Krum
ASSIST Country: Bulgaria
Hebron Academy
“Because of ASSIST, I am able to live the dream of many kids around the world.”
Elen
ASSIST Country: The Czech Republic
The Master’s School
“I really want to encourage you to give it a shot because it’s really, really worth it.”
Idil
ASSIST Country: Turkey
Loomis Chaffee School
“If you are considering applying, I would highly suggest you do so. The program changed my life.”
Berta
ASSIST Country: The Czech Republic
The Ethel Walker School
“I’ve always wanted to study abroad to gain new experience and ASSIST gave me so much more than that. ASSIST really gives you your best fit school. I am certain that all of the experiences I am having will guide me later in life.”