Welcome to the AFS U.S.-China Discovery Initiative website, a cross-cultural learning and resource center for U.S. and Chinese students, teachers and communities brought to you by AFS Intercultural Programs/USA-the world's leader in international education and exchange.

For more than half a century, AFS programs have prepared young people and adults worldwide to think globally and to understand the range of opportunities available to them in education, the workforce, beyond their communities and across national borders. During the initial program year of 2002, through the AFS Discovery Initiative, AFS will help seven pairs of schools in the United States and China embark upon this journey of discovery-virtually via the Internet, and in-person via three-week-long reciprocal exchanges of classroom groups. Through collaboration, skill-building, experiential learning, and community involvement, students and educators in the United States and China will learn about, explore and respond to issues and subjects impacting their lives today-and form friendships, understanding and thoughtful dialogue to help lead to healthier, stronger, and more vital partnerships among our sister nations, communities and schools tomorrow.

AFS Intercultural Programs/USA is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization that helps to create a more just and peaceful world through international education and intercultural learning. AFS (formerly the American Field Service) provides opportunities for high school students and young adults to study abroad for a year, semester, or summer while living with a host family. AFS Intercultural Programs/USA is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization that helps to create a more just and peaceful world through international education and intercultural learning.