We welcomed back our Rotary Youth Exchange student, Jed Greenwald, who spent the 2024–25 school year in Argentina.
Jed was sponsored by our club and lived in Rotary District 4851, in the city of San Juan, located north of Mendoza near the Chilean border. Known for its olive oil and wine production, San Juan offered Jed a rich cultural experience and a warm community.
During his exchange, Jed embraced daily life with his host families, enjoying outdoor adventures, learning new recipes, and experiencing the tradition of Argentine asados. One of his host families owned a pastry business, where Jed discovered a passion for baking and learned to make pastries.
He also had the opportunity to travel widely across Argentina, visiting Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, and Buenos Aires, gaining an appreciation for the country’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
Jed shared that his Youth Exchange experience not only gave him lasting memories but also prepared him for future success. He expressed deep gratitude to the Rotary Club of Santa Barbara Sunrise for sponsoring him and gave special thanks to Scott Burns and Scott Astrosky for their support throughout the year.
As Jed prepares for his next chapter, beginning studies at Stanford University, we celebrate his achievements and look forward to seeing how his exchange year continues to shape his journey.
The Rotary Youth Exchange Program is a life-changing opportunity for students to experience new cultures, develop leadership skills, and build lifelong friendships. Our club is proud to sponsor and support students like Jed as they represent our community abroad.
See more photos here.