Belonging Through Dance: Learning Austria One Step at a Time — Marina's Story

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross chats with Marina, a YFU exchange student from California who spent a transformative year studying abroad in Austria. Marina shares how her passion for languages and dance led her to choose Austria, and how she navigated learning German, joining a unique dance studio, and adapting to Austrian school life. From Krampus parades and nail polish advent calendars to hiking on Sundays and taking Serbo-Croatian electives, Marina’s story is full of cultural surprises and personal growth. She also talks about attending the YES Seminar in Berlin, traveling across Europe, and how her exchange year helped her become more confident, independent, and globally aware.Whether you're curious about youth exchange programs, international education, or the YFU experience, this episode is a fun and inspiring look at the power of saying “yes” to new adventures.Keywords: YFU, Youth For Understanding, exchange student, Austria, study abroad, dance program, German language, YES Seminar, Krampus, Advent Calendar, Marina, Life Exchanged podcastCheck out Marina's blog: travelwmarina.substack.comFor more info on YFU USA: yfuusa.orgChapters:00:00 – Austrian Advent Calendars & Birthday Traditions00:24 – Meet Marina: Exchange to Austria & Dance Program01:45 – Language Skills & Cultural Background03:34 – Choosing Austria Over Germany & Switzerland04:23 – Family Support & Exchange Preparation05:35 – Dance Classes & Studio Experience07:14 – Learning German & Language Barriers10:12 – Host Family Experience & Arrival in Austria14:29 – School Life & Cultural Differences17:27 – Making Friends & Social Life19:14 – Extracurriculars: Ice Skating, Serbo-Croatian, Rock Climbing29:35 – Exploring Austria & Neighboring Countries32:12 – Funny Cultural Misunderstandings36:38 – Growth, Confidence & Reflections40:29 – Packing Tips & Must-See Places43:09 – Travel Highlights & Favorite Destinations44:16 – Becoming a Global Citizen45:06 – Final Thoughts & What’s NextHost & Producer: Kelsey RossEditor & Producer: Mel DyjakDirector: Megan Michels