Giving school presentations can be as engaging for the audience as it is for the presenter. Use this article to consider how to set up and prepare to give a presentation to a school audience. Then, visit the other articles in the “Giving Presentations at Schools” page to find the presentation that fits best for your audience with a few added tips specific to that audience. Try to make sure there are a few photos of the event that show audience engagement. That’s a great way to follow up with the school personnel when you send a thank you card/email.
School Resources Key Considerations: What level of support is there at this school for study abroad? Do our competitors have a relationship with this school? What is the school schedule and how should I time my visit? Who are the people at the school who might be helpful contacts?
- Schools have differing policies on students studying abroad. Policies can be state-wide, district-wide or vary by school. Schools may also have relationships with our competitors and/or offer their own programs.
- To learn about the school schedule, visit the school website and search for the calendar, which typically includes quarter/semesters, breaks, testing schedules, assemblies/pep rallies, and other helpful information.
- Find your AFS Champion! Connecting with the right person at a school makes all the difference. Visit the website for a list of names and contact information for key people, including language teachers and school counselors.
Things to remember as a presenter:
- The audience doesn't care what you know until they know that you care.
- Engage multiple learning styles; make it interactive and fun. Perhaps start with a fun activity.
- Adapt the presentation for your audience, venue, and time constraints.
- Don’t get too stressed. Even if your presentation isn't perfect, the fact that you are introducing such an amazing opportunity will catch the attention of the students who are really interested in an AFS program.
- Encourage interested students to visit our web page afsusa.org to start their journey.
After the presentation:
- Be sure to thank the teacher or administrator who worked with you to set up the presentation.
- Send any follow-up information that was requested of you.
- Record the presentation as a campaign in Global Link.
- Follow up with any sending leads or hosting leads you generated.
Check out step by step instructions for connecting with schools here. Visit the Promote AFS section for additional presentation templates!
Resources to share with educators
The AFS-USA Website contains a variety of tools for educators that we encourage you to share. By using these resources, you will find ways to support the U.S. Department of Education's International Strategy, "Succeeding Globally Through International Education and Engagement" and AFS.
You can also share 10 Easy Questions Schools Should Ask, which is a document put together by the Idaho Department of Education as a guide for schools when selecting exchange programs with which to work.
Here are some templates and additional resources you can use to reach educators: