“I was introduced to many international students and families at a young age despite living in a more remote area of the country. I had the privilege to get to know many others from all over the world. Before I was even in high school, I met families from France, Germany, Norway, Japan, Mexico, Bolivia, Venezuela, South Africa, Australia, and more, including my family hosting some exchange students. This instilled in me a love for different cultures. Because of this, I could travel worldwide at a young age and even study for a semester in another country while attending university. I had such amazing experiences that I wanted to share this love as an adult with my family, and we started hosting with BFF. This allowed me to start working with BFF. Now, I get to introduce my children to people from all over the world, and I can also help other families be introduced to other cultures and develop relationships across the globe. It’s been a joy to watch families grow with each student. I love seeing classmates meet international students, learn about their cultures, and become friends. I get to see these kids grow up, visit other places, and share in life-changing celebrations. We are building connections all over the world, not just for my host families and their classmates but also for myself. I get to continue to meet others from different cultures and build relationships with them. I have kept up with many former students and rejoiced in their accomplishments. I’ve seen them grow and mature during their year here, and I watch them return home and be a leader in their home country. For these reasons and more, I love working for BFF. Working with BFF has fulfilled my desire since I was eight years old when I met my first family from France. I can give others that same experience and love for others. I also get to help the world become a little smaller and a lot closer.”
-Autumn Buckner
