How I Learned About FLEX
In 6th grade, I learned about the FLEX program from the Instagram page of Anna Baghdasaryan, an Armenian blogger and FLEX alumna. I saw how happy and emotional she was after becoming a finalist. At first, I didn’t know what the program was or why it caused such emotions. As I grew older and learned more about FLEX, I started questioning whether it was worth applying and whether my skills and knowledge would be enough to get selected.
I initially planned to apply in the 9th grade, but when the time came to submit my application, something held me back. I felt that I wasn’t ready and decided it would be better to wait until the 10th grade. When I reached the 10th grade, it was a busy time. I applied to the Pre-CCC program without knowing much about American programs, but I realized that I surely wanted to apply to FLEX. My English teacher encouraged me, saying that I would surely pass.
After passing the 1st and 2nd stages, followed by the interview and group activity stage, I met many wonderful people. In the essay-writing stage, there were 7-8 people in my group. Ultimately, only two of us, including me, passed to become finalists.
Life in My Host City
The wait for hosting was long and nerve-wracking. When you think about your future host family, it’s not about the state—Texas, Ohio, or California. What truly matters is having a supportive and caring family.
When I received the message that I would be living in Lubbock, Texas, I felt relief and excitement. Although the city doesn’t have many unique or remarkable features, it is full of kind and good people. As my school librarian once told me, “The people here are what make this city special.” I can confirm this 100%.
Living in Texas has introduced me to a culture that deeply values its heritage. Texans are proud of their state, and it shows. At school, almost 90% of students wear clothing that says “Texas Tech” or “Texas.” It’s inspiring to see such state and national pride in everyday life.
My School Experience
I am studying at Lubbock-Cooper Liberty High School, a new school that currently includes only 9th, 10th, and 11th graders. All assignments and homework are completed online, which means we only need to carry our school-provided laptops.
One notable aspect of the school system here is that students can choose most of their classes. However, some are mandatory: for me, English, math, and history (either American or World history) were required by FLEX, not the school.
The grading system is out of 100 points, and students can earn extra points by being active in class. For example, if you score 70 on a test, you might receive an additional 20 points for good behavior and participation. Meeting deadlines is also emphasized, with some teachers awarding full marks for timely submissions. Compared to Armenia’s grading system, it feels more relaxed, focusing on responsibility and effort rather than just results.
Volunteering and Cultural Activities
My placement organization, World Link, supports us throughout the program, from arrival to placement. They require at least 30 hours of volunteering and encourage cultural presentations during International Education Week (IEW).
I delivered 15 presentations about Armenia, earning 7 points in World Link’s Public Achievement Leadership program. These points matter because finalists who are in the top 10% at the end of the year are rewarded with a trip to New York.
World Link also organizes unique activities like “Kindness Cookies.” With the help of my host family, I baked cookies and handed them out on Halloween instead of traditional candy. This experience was not only fun but also a meaningful way to engage with the community.
Building Connections with My Host Family
I was hosted late, on August 9th, just weeks before my departure on August 26th. Despite the short time, we quickly bonded over video calls and messages. When I arrived in the U.S., it felt like I had returned to a place I had lived in for years. My host family is incredibly supportive, standing by my side through any problem.
Our adventures began immediately. On my first Thursday in the U.S., we went to Dallas for a short trip. Since then, we have visited New Mexico, Colorado, and other places. These trips have been a wonderful way to explore and bond with my host family.
Making Friends and Integrating
Making friends here has been much easier than I initially thought. Group projects and activities became natural ways to meet people. I ride the school bus with one friend and return home with another, which has also helped me build connections.
Beyond my school, I’ve made friends from Frenship High School through church-organized projects. Even though my peers have known each other for years, they welcomed me warmly, making it easy to feel included.
The Day I Became a Finalist
I still remember the call informing me that I had become a FLEX finalist. That day, I was feeling unemotional, and when the call came, I thought there might be an issue with my documents. Instead, I heard, “Congratulations, Milena jan, you became a FLEX finalist.”
It was a surreal moment. After the initial shock wore off, excitement took over as I connected with other finalists. The process ahead required a lot of paperwork, including personal essays, videos, and notarized forms. For future applicants: if you think you’ve completed a lot of paperwork to apply, be prepared for ten times more after becoming a finalist!
My Future Goals
After FLEX, I plan to apply to the Competitive College Club (CCC). My dream is to study at top universities like Harvard, Stanford, or Yale, with a focus on law or international relations. I also hope to organize programs that inspire and empower others, just as FLEX has done for me.
Advice for Future Applicants
Be honest during interviews and essays. Many think they can become finalists by copying others or memorizing responses, but that’s not true. FLEX values genuine leaders who are active, open-minded, and confident. Relax, show your personality, and don’t overthink the questions—they want to see the real you.
