CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Sixteen-year-old Andrii Bilyi may have traveled more than 5,000 miles from his home in Ukraine, but he’s found a second family—and a second home—on a farm in southern Champaign County.
Andrii is in Illinois for 10 months through the U.S. State Department’s Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) Program, which brings high school students from post-Soviet countries to the United States to promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding. He’s the only FLEX student from Ukraine currently placed in Illinois.
“I just wanted to see an American farm,” he said with a smile. “It’s almost like a different planet across the ocean.”
He’s living with Darin Riggs, co-owner of Riggs Beer Company, and his wife, who both served in the U.S. military and have traveled the world—but had never made it to Ukraine. “Now we feel like we brought a little bit of Ukraine to us,” said Darin. “He’s not just living with us—he’s part of the family.”
Andrii attends Heritage High School in Unit 8 and was recently voted onto the Homecoming court, a surprise honor that left him “really touched.” He also plans on joining the school’s baseball and basketball teams and plays guitar in a band.
Back in Ukraine, Andrii attends the same school from first through 11th grade, declares a major (his is computer science), and follows a college-style schedule. “We have strict dress codes—nice pants, button-up shirts, dress shoes,” he said. “School here feels more relaxed, but students still have the same worries: friends, classes, what to eat for lunch.”
He says Americans have been welcoming and curious. “People ask a lot of questions about Ukraine. Some speak slowly and loudly to me at first—but then they realize I speak perfect English,” he laughed. “Everyone has been so kind.”
Andrii speaks Ukrainian, Russian, and English, and began studying English in grade school. His teacher encouraged him to apply for FLEX. He was one of just 51 students selected from over 3,000 applicants. The application process involved multiple essay rounds, interviews, and evaluations to ensure students could adapt to life in a different country.
A Thorough Matchmaking Process
Before arriving, Andrii’s host family went through background checks, home inspections, and completed an “interest letter” about their lifestyle. The student and family were matched based on compatibility—including answers about religion, allergies, diet, and personality.
“Our goal was to share our lives and learn something in return,” said Darin Riggs. “He’s thoughtful, talented, and curious—it’s been great.”
The family has taken Andrii to Chicago, where he explored Ukrainian Village and visited the Ukrainian National Museum. He also got to check off a bucket-list item: seeing his musical idol Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam sing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” at a Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field.
He also toured the University of Illinois and attended the Ellnora Guitar Festival, and says he’d love to return to study computer science in college.
When asked about his favorite American food? “Homemade mac and cheese,” he said without hesitation.
For Americans Who Want to Go Abroad
While FLEX traditionally brings students from Eastern Europe and Central Asia to the U.S., the U.S. Department of State and American Councils now offer FLEX Abroad, a fully funded scholarship program for American high school students to study in countries like Poland, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Romania.
Through World Heritage and ASSE International Student Exchange Programs, American teens can apply for a semester, year-long, or summer study abroad experience with host families, just like Andrii’s.
“I think it’s important that young people get to experience another culture,” Andrii said. “It changes how you see the world.”
He still texts with his family every day back home, but says he’s grateful to be in Illinois, surrounded by new friends and traditions. “I’m really excited for Thanksgiving and Christmas,” he said. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
