Want to travel abroad this summer on an incredible foreign exchange program? Phoenix Sister Cities Youth Ambassador Exchange Program selects 26 sophomore and junior students who live in Phoenix each year to travel to one of their 10 sister cities. Calgary, Canada; Catania, Italy; Chengdu, China; Ennis, Ireland; Grenoble, France; Hermosillo, Mexico; Himeji, Japan; Prague, Czech Republic; Ramat Gan, Israel and Taipei, Taiwan are the 10 locations offered to spend a month with a host family.

When the participants arrive back in America from their excursions, the American natives then host their foreign counterpart for the month of July. During this time, the families participate in fun activities together such as going to Santa Monica, Six Flags, Flagstaff Extreme and Sedona. The Americans introduce their families to American holidays and show them how to live like an American.

Two Xavier seniors, Ashlyn Bradshaw and Rebecca Jordan, traveled this past summer to Grenoble, France and Hermosillo, Mexico, respectively. They learned about different cultures and found it interesting to learn about the way teens lived around the world.

Bradshaw’s advice to applicants is to “be yourself and take it seriously. Since it is a city program, it is highly selective.” This program would be perfect for anyone who loves travel, culture and making new friends around the world.

To apply for this wonderful opportunity, head to the Phoenix Sister Cities website. Applications opened on Monday, Oct. 2nd.

Here is an overview of the program:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOEVmdIiySU.