J. Molina

New AHS Student Iman Dzafic reads in her english class.

Exchange student programs have been around since the 1960s. Students from various countries have been able to understand people from different nations with the goal of education and cultural understanding. Iman Dzafic is one of many exchange students, and she is attending AHS for the 2024-2025 school year.

Dzafic, all the way from small-town Gradačac, Bosnia, is an exchange student here at AHS. From watching the classic American high-school life on the big screen to living it, Dzafic is excited to experience and learn the American culture and high school experience. This is Dzafic’s first time in the U.S. Since Dzafic started at AHS she, “loves the culture and the people are very nice,” she said. Dzafic wanted to come to the U.S. because Bosnia’s school system ¨sucks,” Dzafic said. Dzafic really enjoys sociology, arts and crafts, DIYs, and diamond painting. While here she wants to participate in volleyball, basketball, and track. Dzafic said that she is, “open to everything,” and wants to, “try everything as possible.” She hopes to learn English, more about people, and other people’s values and beliefs.

Dzafic is currently staying with 8th-grade math teacher Elizabeth Reid and her family. “We really enjoy hosting Iman!¨ Reid said. They have been learning a lot about Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Balkan region in general. “There have been many benefits of hosting.” She said, “I finally fixed up our spare bedroom and upgraded some of our furniture,” which was, “long overdue.” When Reid was younger her parents were able to host exchange students through the IRIS program, an organization that sponsored the students. “I was hesitant at first because we’re very busy with activities, work, and other commitments,” she said. The process to host Dzafic was very short. The process included background checks, references, and simple applications. Finally, Reid and her family were interviewed by an organization coordinator. “Luckily, we passed and Iman was able to join us,” she said. Iman will stay with Reid and her family for the 2024-2025 school year and she will return to Bosnia in June. “I think the relationship we have with Iman and her family will be life-long!”

Dzafic is here with the YES Program (Youth Exchange & Study), and the IRIS Program (Iowa Resource for International Service) These two programs have worked together since 2003. These two programs have made it possible for more than 900 high school scholars worldwide to live and study in Iowa.

Trace Peterson, an American History teacher at AHS said he has, “had an exchange student 90% of the time he has taught.” Peterson enjoys having exchange students in classes. “It’s always good to hear a different perspective and how countries do their education and how they live.” Peterson said, “Teaching exchange students is usually pretty easy, most exchange students speak excellent English.” Peterson is interested in learning about different cultures and learning about what is happening in their home country. “Iman is a great student, and teaches students about everything outside the U.S.”