An innovative exchange program is offering children from both red and blue states a free ticket to see America’s different landscapes and challenge any assumptions they may have about locations far away.
“It’s difficult to say no to a free trip, but I had a strong desire to visit as much of the country as possible. “It’s incredible to see, especially the Midwest,” Z.J. Schwartz, a program alum from California, told “Fox & Friends Weekend.”
The American Exchange Program exposes high school seniors from cities such as New York City and Los Angeles to rural America and vice versa, debunking preconceptions about other ways of life and opening minds to new opportunities – all in an effort to bridge the nation’s divide.
Schwartz’s adventure took him to South Dakota, where he anticipated to find nothing but a bleak terrain with the occasional house, but he was pleasantly pleased by the variety of activities available.
“I grew up in a densely populated area, so seeing huge fields, farms, and other sights that I never expected to see are some of the best experiences because it’s a completely different part of the country.” It’s almost like it’s in another country,” he said.
Brook Roozen, a South Dakota program graduate who was sent to New York for her trip, admitted that she went into the experience terrified due to tales about risks in big cities.
“I had a lot of people around me telling me, ‘Oh, you’re going to have your belongings stolen. ‘These five strange people you’re staying with will hurt you. I was nervous since there were so many crazy things. “I was definitely a little scared,” she told Fox News’ Will Cain.
The experience was transformative for Roozen and Schwartz, as they both learned that the reality of their interactions differed dramatically from their expectations.
“It was honestly the best experience of my life, and I wouldn’t change it for anything. I met so many wonderful people as a result, and my heart is full,” Roozen added.
Schwartz’s preconceived notions about Mount Rushmore State were broken when he saw sections he never expected and participated in a variety of enjoyable activities that shaped his visit.
“When we arrived, we traveled to Sioux Falls, which is a gorgeous, active city, and then to Flandreau, which is a little but incredibly beautiful town. There are shops on every street, farms with alpacas, bison, and other animals you wouldn’t expect to see up there, and the great people are so welcoming,” he remarked.
“We got to watch a baseball game and do all of this stuff. “I didn’t really consider what people do for fun.”
According to the program’s website, students who participate are financed by individuals who are committed to providing students with opportunities to learn more about the United States and their fellow citizens.