Make the most of your exchange program

Become a Global Changemaker. Leverage your learning journey, create your Social Impact Project and earn your Certificate issued by AFS and the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy and Practice. 

Change the world now
mimi-thian-vdXMSiX-n6M-unsplash

Become a Global Changemaker

Do you want to change the world? Do you want to keep learning and make the most of your exchange experience? Now, you can upgrade your AFS Student Learning Journey and add an extra course to further develop skills to create your Social Impact Project.

This content is exclusive for AFS High School Study Abroad Program participants and it was developed with the Center for Social Impact Strategy at the University of Pennsylvania.

When you successfully complete the course requirements, you’ll receive the Advanced Certificate on Global Citizenship for Social Impact from AFS and the School of Social Policy & Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.

shutterstock_782262922

Why did AFS partner with the University of Pennsylvania?

AFS and the University of Pennsylvania know that young people can change the world for the better. This is why we have partnered with the University of Pennsylvania’s (Penn) Center for Social Impact Strategy (CSIS). We’ve partnered CSIS so that you can develop the knowledge and skills that let you practice social innovation skills. Create, get feedback and test your social projects in your community.

We’ve combined AFS’ 75+ years of experience in intercultural learning with the Center for Social Impact Strategy at the University of Pennsylvania’s expertise in social innovation and social impact to create this unique online program.

shutterstock_415901983

Learn how to make a difference in your community.

This is a one-of-a-kind online course where you will learn about Social Impact and design your idea. During this course you will:

  • Understand fundamentals of global citizenship, social impact, social innovation, design thinking and creative tools for innovation.
  • Practice researching your community and social impact issues.
  • Develop new ideas for meaningful social impact.
  • Turn your ideas for change into a usable prototype, testing it in the real world.
  • Get feedback on your prototype by an official committee of evaluators from AFS, and the Center for Social Impact Strategy at the University of Pennsylvania.
  • Develop self-awareness by reflecting on and understanding your own cultural identities and perspectives plus those of others.
  • Interact and engage in open dialogue with peers from around the world.
  • Examine intercultural issues and how they are fundamental to Changemaking.
smq1q2_19956219_1623494727674644_8612991265667929831_o

Why do it?

This is your chance to go deeper into social impact and make a difference wherever you are in the world, either on exchange with AFS or once back home. You will be able to design your own Social Impact Project, learn design thinking skills, engage with fellow peers to contribute in theirs projects, have fun and make your study abroad experience even more meaningful.

Enroll now!
shutterstock_1638044536

How much does it cost?

If you are High School Study Abroad Program student, and your program started in 2020 or 2021, you can participate in this course with only one payment of USD $245.

Your tuition unlocks access to the 6 exclusive online modules and 2 additional live sessions. It also covers the certification for the Advanced Certificate on Global Citizenship for Social Impact from AFS and the School of Social Policy & Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.

Save your spot now

Experience the world

During your AFS High School Study Abroad Program you will create connections and develop superpowers that are going to help you to explore the world around you.

Learn global skills

You will develop global skills and knowledge that are essential to stand-out in an increasingly connected world.

Create change

Think globally. Become an Active Global Citizen. Develop your Social Impact Project and change the world.

Global Changemaker

Information for parents

Help your teen unleash their creativity, develop a social impact project and become an AFS Global You Changemaker. If all requirements are successfully met, your teen will get the Advanced Certificate on Global Citizenship for Social Impact from AFS and the School of Social Policy & Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.

AFS has been transforming lives and developing active global citizens through our intercultural programs for over 75 years. The University of Pennsylvania is an Ivy League University and one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the world. Plus, your teen will have a fun and productive time while they help to make the world a better place for everyone.

When you successfully complete the program requirements, you’ll receive the Advanced Certificate on Global Citizenship for Social Impact from AFS and the School of Social Policy & Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.

Save your spot now!

FAQ's

Every student traveling with AFS will be able to take part in the AFS Student Learning Journey. This Advance option includes 6 exclusive additional modules and 2 live sessions you will take before and during your AFS exchange. It takes around 17 hours to complete (10.5 hours during pre-departure and 6.5 hours during the program).  It also includes  2 special facilitated live online sessions where you will connect with peers⁠ —and Social Impact Facilitators—from all around the world to exchange ideas and share your project.

Register Now!

Advanced Curriculum registration

    Please, keep in mind that this course is exclusive for AFS High School Study Abroad Program students. If you are not, we invite you to visit the virtual programs and enroll in AFS Global You Changemaker program.