During their exchange program with AFS, students will live in a host family, attend a local school and therefore experience a foreign culture up close. AFS á Íslandi provides a preparation camp before departure (Undirbúningsnámskeið) and a reorientation-camp (Heimkomunámskeið) where students can share their experience with volunteers and other exchange students.
Upon arrival at Riga Airport, students are greeted by volunteers who accompany them to their first training meeting. This day is designed to give students an insight into Latvian life, culture and customs. During the programme, AFS participants meet on three other occasions to evaluate their experience and language learning: six weeks after arrival, in January, and at the final meeting to prepare for their return.
Additional optional activities, such as excursions, field trips and cultural visits, may be offered; the cost of these optional activities is not included in the participation fee.
Each student will be assigned a volunteer (liaison) to accompany them throughout their journey, helping them to understand the local reality and overcome difficulties in cultural adjustment.