Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council is delighted to announce that applications are now open for the Sister Cities Student Exchange Programme 2022. This cross-community programme, which has been running since 2000, aims to provide Antrim and Newtownabbey’s young adults with an opportunity to travel to Gilbert, Arizona during the summer.
Two students will be selected to participate in the programme from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough. The first part of the programme involves the two students travelling to the USA to spend three weeks being home hosted by their matched student. They will be given a wonderful opportunity to learn about their hosts’ local cultures and customs in ways not available to a casual visitor.
At the end of the three weeks, the Gilbert students will return with our students to be home hosted in Antrim and Newtownabbey. During their stay, they will have a chance to closely experience a new culture and make lifelong friends by living with the family of their exchange student.
All travel expenses for the Programme will be covered by the Council, however students are expected to provide their own passports and spending money. Applications must be submitted by 10 January 2022.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor Billy Webb said “I am delighted that we are able to work with our sister city, Gilbert in Arizona again this year. This is a fabulous opportunity for our young adults to experience a new Country and culture, Right at the heart of the local community. I also look forward to welcoming students from Gilbert when they arrive to stay with one of our families next year. I am sure they will have a great time with so many exciting things to see and do in our Borough”.
If you or someone you know would like to take part in this exciting opportunity, visit here for more information, eligibility criteria and how to apply.