Finding Confidence Abroad: Adapting & Writing Your Future - Gabriela's Story

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, Gabriela shares her inspiring journey as a high school exchange student from Iowa to Germany through the prestigious YFU CBYX Scholarship Program.From a whirlwind last-minute application to a chaotic but joyful acceptance moment, Gabriela’s story is filled with humor, heart, and determination. She opens up about the challenges of the CBYX scholarship process, learning German from scratch, and adjusting to life with a host family in Bavaria.Gabriela reflects on her experiences in the German school system, bonding with her host sisters, and embracing new traditions like hiking to Neuschwanstein Castle, celebrating her birthday with a dirndl, and visiting the German Bundestag.She also shares how her youth exchange experience shaped her personal growth, strengthened her identity as a Colombian-American, and inspired her future goals in English and Creative Writing.🎙️ This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the CBYX Program, study abroad scholarships, international education, and the transformative power of cultural exchange.Keywords: CBYX scholarship, YFU exchange program, study abroad Germany, high school exchange student, youth exchange USA to Germany, German school system, intercultural learning, global citizenship, international education, host family experienceFollow Gabriela on Instagram: @gaby2006_deutschlandFor more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/Chapters:00:00 – Starting the Journey: From Iowa to Germany01:05 – Applying for the Exchange: Essays, Deadlines, and Support03:21 – Graduating Early and Choosing High School Abroad06:54 – Family Support and Cultural Preparation09:14 – Learning German and Embracing a New Language10:31 – Acceptance Day and Meeting the Host Family16:51 – Orientation, Language Camp, and First Impressions23:05 – Settling In: Host Family Life and Cultural Differences26:24 – School Life in Germany: Academics and Friendships34:07 – New Experiences: Food, Traditions, and Social Life42:11 – Overcoming Challenges and Growing Through Language46:19 – Changing Perspectives: On the U.S., Germany, and Identity52:04 – What’s Next: College, Writing, and Full Circle MomentsHost & Producer: Kelsey RossEditor & Producer: Mel DyjakDirector: Megan Michels