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Seven Questions for Abby Hancock, YFU Volunteer & Miss Alaska 2010
Posted on 08.11.2010
Seven Questions for Abby Hancock, YFU Volunteer & Miss Alaska 2010
How did you first become involved with YFU USA?
I first became involved after randomly coming across the YFU web site. I was searching online for study abroad opportunities and I started reading what YFU was all about and how I could become involved in Alaska. The next week I met with Alaska's director and I became an area representative.
What motivated you to make “Raising Global Citizens: the World is our Classroom” part of your platform?
I chose my platform based on my own experiences with travel and foreign language. I volunteered for YFU South Africa for a few weeks and during that trip, along with my interaction with students in Alaska, I saw first hand how much exchange students benefit from the experience. I believe it gives students a deeper understanding of the world they live in and I think this is so important.
Your platform also includes the promotion of foreign languag
es – which foreign languages have you studied? Why is this important to you?
I studied Spanish for about five years and during that time I became enamored with not only the language, but the culture and history of Spanish-speaking countries. I believe that when a student learns a foreign language, they feel like they have a special connection to a different part of the world. Knowledge of a foreign language will also open up many doors for students and give them opportunities they would not have otherwise.
Why is “Raising Global Citizens” particularly important for your home state of Alaska?
I know that many Alaskans sometimes feel a bit of a disconnect from the rest of the world since we are so far north. As Miss Alaska, my goal is to get students aware of the many foreign language and exchange opportunities available to them. Alaska is also a diverse state and unique because it includes many Alaskan Native cultures. This makes it easier for us to learn about those cultures that truly are outside our front door.
What advice would you share with YFU international teenagers coming to Alaska?
Try to explore! Alaska is such a unique state because it has long winters and short summers. However, many Alaskans take full advantage of all the seasons. A student will enjoy their time in Alaska much more if they make an effort to not let the elements stop them from being active.
What advice would you share with Alaskan teenagers considering going abroad on a summer, semester, or year-long program with YFU USA?
It's tough to decide where to go for a foreign exchange and when Alaska is in the mix, it sometimes seems like it's an easy "NO." However, I made the choice to come to Alaska for college and it was nothing like I expected. I have lived here for nearly five years and I absolutely love it! I think Alaska suits people who are adventurous and like the extreme – many characteristics of a potential foreign exchange student. Every foreign exchange student that I have met that has come to Alaska has had an awesome time. If you are considering Alaska, the one thing to remember is that it will definitely be an experience of a lifetime!
You will be competing in the Miss America 2011 Pageant in Las Vegas – should you become the next Miss America? How would you work to advance international education?
As Miss America, I would bring my platform to schools across the country and share the opportunities that are out there for students. I believe it doesn't take much for a student to spark an interest in travel! I would also work to advance international education by utilizing the publicity that comes with the title of Miss America to raise more awareness of how necessary global awareness is for our students. And finally, I think it is so important to use technology as an educational tool in promoting my platform. Through avenues like Facebook, Twitter and blogging, I hope to target students by sharing how being a global citizen can help out their generation and even make a positive impact on our world.
