Culture Shock & Second Chances: The Power of Support - Greta's Story

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross speaks with Greta, a 17-year-old CBYX scholarship recipient from Germany, about her unforgettable exchange year in the United States. From overcoming her fear of backyard chickens to navigating multiple host family transitions, Greta shares the highs and lows of her journey with honesty, humor, and resilience.Greta opens up about cultural differences, adapting to new schools, and the emotional challenges she faced—alongside unforgettable adventures to Las Vegas, Hawaii, and beyond. She reflects on how YFU and her local coordinators supported her through tough times, and how the experience helped her grow personally and shape her future.Whether you're a student considering exchange, a host family, or just curious about the CBYX program, this episode offers a heartfelt look at the real-life impact of cultural exchange.Keywords: CBYX, YFU, exchange student, host family, cultural exchange, Germany to USA, international education, study abroad, resilience, teen travel, Greta, Life Exchanged podcastFollow Greta on Instagram: @greta.goes.pppFor more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/Chapters:00:00 – Chicken Fear00:29 – Meet Greta01:33 – Exchange Inspiration02:11 – Applying to CBYX06:19 – Acceptance Moment09:05 – First Host Family10:12 – Private School Life13:53 – Arrival in the U.S.17:14 – Making Friends18:07 – Leaving First Family22:14 – New Host Family23:32 – Vegas & Hawaii Trip28:20 – Bonding Over Sports32:10 – New School Experience36:08 – Leaving Second Family40:02 – Final Host Family43:04 – Final School & Prom49:05 – Staying Resilient57:19 – What’s Next01:01:24 – Would You Do It Again?01:02:33 – ClosingHost & Producer: Kelsey RossEditor & Producer: Mel DyjakDirector: Megan Michels