The Impact of a Student Exchange Program on Breaking Stereotypes between Kids in Red and Blue States

The American Exchange Project (AEP) is making waves across the United States by breaking down stereotypes and fostering understanding among high school students from different regions. This social experiment sends students from red states to blue states and vice versa, as well as from big cities to rural areas, allowing them to experience life in a completely different environment.

The impact of AEP on the participating students has been profound. Brook Roozen, a 19-year-old from Flandreau, South Dakota, described her trip to New York City as “one of the most terrifying yet most beautiful and life-changing experiences” she has had. Roozen grew up in a small, conservative town where everyone knew each other, and her trip to the bustling metropolis was eye-opening. She marveled at the skyscrapers and felt a sense of awe at the diversity of people she encountered.

The program provides students with the opportunity to stay with local host families who introduce them to community events and service opportunities. Everything from transportation to meals is covered by generous donors. Since its inception in 2019, AEP has partnered with 53 high schools in 31 states, enabling over 400 kids to participate in this transformative experience.

Founder David McCullough III was inspired to start AEP after his own cross-country road trip, where he discovered the beauty of diversity and the importance of treating individuals as unique entities rather than stereotypes. He believes that division is the greatest problem facing America today and that by exposing young Americans to different parts of the country, they can learn from each other and work towards progress.

The experiences of the students involved in AEP support McCullough’s belief. Polling conducted by Harvard researchers alongside AEP found that students’ attitudes towards those who disagree with them on contentious political issues significantly improved after their trips. They viewed those with differing opinions as more moral, thoughtful, and kind. This newfound understanding has the power to bridge divides and create a more united nation.

The impact of AEP extends beyond the students’ time in the program. Lifelong friendships have been forged, transcending geographic and cultural boundaries. For example, Brook Roozen from South Dakota and ZJ Schwartz from California became close friends despite their different backgrounds. Their friendship challenged preconceived notions and opened their minds to new perspectives.

Mayor Ronnie Spradlin of Kilgore, Texas, is a strong advocate for programs like AEP. He believes that the division and distrust between regions are increasing with each generation and that initiatives like AEP are crucial in bridging these gaps. Students visiting Kilgore get to experience the local culture and engage in activities such as skeet shooting and ranch days. Spradlin highlights how exposing these students to activities they may not have encountered before challenges their preconceived notions.

The impact of AEP is not limited to improving understanding between regions; it also prompts self-reflection and personal growth. Yenifer Abreu from Brooklyn, New York, initially had reservations about her trip to California, assuming that everyone would be “stuck-up rich kids.” However, she was pleasantly surprised to find that the students she met were down-to-earth and relatable. This experience taught her that stereotypes are often unfair and that there is always something in common with every person if you are open to conversation.

As AEP looks ahead to its next cycle, founder David McCullough III hopes to make this experience as normal as senior prom, with the goal of fostering love for the country and breaking down divisions. The program has already proven its ability to challenge stereotypes and create lasting friendships. By continuing to expose young Americans to different parts of the country, AEP aims to build a more united and understanding nation.

In a time of polarization and division, the American Exchange Project offers hope for a future where understanding and empathy triumph over stereotypes and prejudice. Through the experiences of its participants, AEP is breaking down barriers and fostering friendships that will last a lifetime. This program serves as a reminder that despite our differences, we all have more in common than we may think.