Chasing Big Dreams Abroad: The Lessons Germany Taught Me — Abby's Story

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross speaks with Abby, a high school exchange student who studied abroad in Germany through the prestigious CBYX Scholarship Program.Abby shares her inspiring study abroad experience, from living with a German host family and adjusting to cultural differences, to falling in love with German bread and embracing local traditions. She reflects on the contrasts between German and American school systems, the friendships she built, and the personal growth she experienced through this youth exchange program.Abby also discusses how her journey in international education shaped her future aspirations in hospitality management and teaching English abroad.🎙️ Whether you're a student considering studying abroad, curious about the CBYX for High School Students program, or interested in the power of cultural exchange, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a taste of life in Germany.Keywords: CBYX scholarship, study abroad Germany, high school exchange student, youth exchange program, German host family, intercultural communication, international education, global citizenship, hospitality career path, teaching English abroadFollow Abby on Instagram: @abby_worgess @abby_auf_deutschFor more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/Chapters:00:00 – Missing Milestones: Skipping Graduation for Exchange00:42 – Meet Abby: From Indiana to Germany02:08 – Winning the CBYX Scholarship & Choosing Germany04:14 – Senior Year Abroad: Trade-offs & Mindset Shifts06:07 – Learning German & Language Camp Experience08:22 – Telling Her Parents: The PowerPoint Pitch10:56 – Meeting the Host Family & Building Early Connections13:10 – Culture Shock & Adjusting to Life in Germany14:35 – Host Family Life: Festivals, Energy & Onion Dolls16:51 – School Differences: Subjects, Class Size & Friendships21:11 – Embracing German Traditions & Holidays24:12 – Sharing American Culture: Hosting Thanksgiving26:12 – Host Siblings & Learning to Be a Big Sister27:31 – Coping with Loss Abroad & Emotional Resilience29:29 – Travel Adventures Across Germany & Austria31:32 – End-of-Year Traditions & Saying Goodbye34:03 – Advice for Future Exchange Students & Host Families35:10 – Future Plans: Hospitality, Linguistics & Teaching Abroad36:14 – Changing Perspectives on the U.S. & Germany37:18 – Haircut Mishaps & Mid-Year Memories38:57 – Favorite Foods & Sweet German Treats39:37 – Where to Follow Abby’s JourneyHost & Producer: Kelsey RossEditor & Producer: Mel DyjakDirector: Megan Michels