How the Study Abroad Advisory Group Is Strengthening the AFS Journey

How the Study Abroad Advisory Group Is Strengthening the AFS Journey

Written by: Jennifer Grace, Silver & Gold Area Team, National Council Communications Committee Member

The AFS Study Abroad Advisory Group (SAAG), led by AFS staff member Caitlin Schneider and volunteer Kim Thompson, is working steadily to expand global opportunities for U.S. high school students. Their mission is clear: empower volunteers, strengthen communication, and ensure every student and family has the tools, support, and inspiration they need to begin their international journey with confidence.

Watch a short video about the SAAG here.

The Study Abroad Advisory team helps shape a more connected, informed, and responsive AFS community—one conversation, one resource, and one volunteer at a time.

Goals for the Year: Building a Stronger Study Abroad System

In 2025–2026, the Study Abroad Advisory Group is focused on creating a more transparent, cohesive, and well-supported experience for students, families, and volunteers. Their goals include:

  • Strengthening communication between Study Abroad staff and volunteers to ensure both groups feel informed, connected, and equipped.
  • Launching a consistent rhythm of national Study Abroad volunteer calls to share resources, highlight programs, and build a nationwide community.
  • Collaborating across departments—including Orientations and the Alumni & Returnee Team—to create a seamless AFS experience from application to return.

2025 Achievements: Growth Through Collaboration

Over the past two years, SAAG and Study Abroad staff have made remarkable progress in streamlining processes, building transparency, and supporting volunteers.

  • Major updates to MyAFS and new volunteer tools: A redesigned interface now allows volunteers to follow a student from application to return, accessing more detailed program information, viewing host family updates, and tracking scholarship details.
  • Increased national collaboration and outreach is supported by updated marketing materials, a Study Abroad calendar, and new communication templates that volunteers can use with applicants. As Kim Thompson shared, “These tools make it easier than ever to guide students through their journey—and to feel connected every step of the way.”

These improvements have contributed to significant post-pandemic growth—rising from just 102 Study Abroad students in 2020 to 338 students in 2025.

Spotlight: The New Study Abroad Resources Suite — A Game-Changer

One of the group’s most impactful projects has been the creation of an expanded suite of Study Abroad resources—designed specifically for volunteers.

The suite includes an updated interview form, stronger program guides, refreshed marketing materials, and new training tools that simplify communication with students and families. All of these updates were shaped by volunteer feedback.

“Volunteers told us what they needed to feel confident,” said Caitlin. “These resources reflect their voice—and they’ve transformed how we support applicants across the country.”

Clearer tools mean more efficient processes, better student preparation, and a more cohesive AFS community nationwide.

Tackling Challenges: Building a Larger, Stronger Volunteer Network

Despite major strides, one challenge remains at the center of SAAG’s work: identifying and expanding each team’s Study Abroad volunteer base.

Every AFS team looks different—some have established Study Abroad champions, while others are still discovering who holds interest or expertise in the area. The group is working to:

  • Identify volunteers within teams who are passionate about Study Abroad
  • Make roles and responsibilities more visible
  • Ensure volunteers have the up-to-date resources they need
  • Collaborate with Young Volunteers and Returnees – our Global Citizens

Better tools and communication will strengthen every team’s ability to promote Study Abroad locally and help students take the first steps toward an international future.

Join the Study Abroad Advisory Group: Opportunities for Volunteers

With several members completing their terms, the Study Abroad Advisory Group is actively seeking new volunteers who want to help shape the future of AFS Study Abroad.

We welcome individuals who:

  • Have a passion for helping students see the world
  • Enjoy presenting, training, or mentoring
  • Are interested in clear communication and creating supportive resources
  • Want to help expand Study Abroad access nationwide

No prior experience is required—just enthusiasm, curiosity, and a commitment to the AFS mission.

If you are a volunteer who believes in the life-changing power of global education, this is your opportunity to make a national impact and help the next generation of AFSers begin their journey.