“Work can indeed be an important educational and cross-cultural experience. It may be more influential in forming attitudes and impressions of American life than a purely academic experience.”
— Sen. J. William Fulbright
"Cultural exchanges are a powerful way for people to connect across borders and for countries to build respect for each other. Moreover, they are an integral part of the U.S. foreign policy".
— Secretary of State Antony Blinken
Simple exchanges can break down walls between us, for when people come together and speak to one
another and share a common experience, then their common humanity is revealed.”
— President Barack Obama
"I am delighted to sign the new Fulbright-Hays Act. This ceremony has historic significance because it marks full recognition by the Congress of the importance of a more comprehensive program of educational and cultural activities as a component of our foreign relations."
— President John F. Kennedy
“Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all people cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends.”
— Maya Angelou, American Poet
"There is a flickering spark in us all which, if struck at just the right age...can light the rest of our lives, elevating our ideals, deepening our tolerance and sharpening our appetite for knowledge about the rest of the world. Educational and cultural exchanges...provide a perfect opportunity for this precious spark to grow, making us more sensitive and wiser international citizens through our careers."
