Supporting Students Newly Interested in AFS
From AFSWiki
Contents |
Overview
Each year, thousands of students express interest in AFS study abroad programs. Many students hear about AFS through their school, AFS Volunteers, Returnees and Hosted Students. Additionally, many students learn about AFS through www.afsusa.org. When a student expresses interest in AFS, the student recieves a catalog via mail while their parent receives a letter from AFS specifically for parents. In addition, the student will recieve emails from AFS, and an initial call from AFS to guage their interest. The goal of all of these activities is to encourage interested student to begin the application process.
Volunteer Support is Invaluable
Volunteers are encouraged to reach out to students in their community to make the local connection. Local support and guidance from volunteers is invaluable to students and parents. It is often the personal connection with a volunteer in the students community that turns their interest into action. Here are a few key ways you can engage future AFSers:
- provide basic information about AFS programs.
- invite students to local events, such as an Information Event.
- send emails introducing yourself.
- make a phone call to connect on a personal level.
- connect with the parent to offer support and insight.
- encourage students to sign-up for Online Info Sessions.
- offer encouragement for students to submit the preliminary application as they are ready.
How do I find out who is interested in AFS in my area?
Volunteers can contact students interested in AFS through the Salesforce Portal. To access the Salesforce Portal, send an email to Max Miller at mmiller@afs.org. You will be provided with a login and password as well as basic training.
