Given the reduced staff at AFS-USA, the changing and varied circumstances in Teams across the US, and our desire to maintain a high-quality orientation program despite these circumstances, the Orientation Advisory Group, in partnership with staff, decided to implement a new Online Pre-Departure Orientation Module. Documentation of completion of this module will fulfil the CSIET and AFS requirements for the Pre-Departure Orientation, however it does not replace the local orientation, whether in-person or virtual. All Teams are still expected to offer, and all participants are still expected to attend, a local Pre-Departure Orientation.
The Online Pre-Departure Orientation Module covers such topics as AFS History and Mission, AFS rules and expectations, adjusting to life abroad, and safety and support while on program. Participants will be told that their Local Pre-Departure Orientation may also touch on these topics, however, we hope that your local events will focus more on providing applicants the opportunity to learn about your local team and to engage with others who have previous experience with AFS.