From CBYX to Germany: How Study Abroad Changes You - Margot's Story

In this inspiring episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross sits down with Margot, a U.S. high school student currently studying abroad in Germany through the prestigious CBYX (Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange) Scholarship Program.Margot opens up about her transformative study abroad experience in Germany, from adjusting to cultural differences and building meaningful relationships with her host family, to discovering the unbeatable charm of German bread. She shares candid insights into the challenges and rewards of being a high school exchange student, and why she believes more American teens should consider international education opportunities.Whether you're a student, parent, or educator curious about how to study abroad in high school, or simply love stories about global learning and cultural exchange, this episode offers a firsthand look at the life-changing impact of the CBYX for High School Students program.🎧 Tune in to hear:What it’s really like to be a high school student in GermanyTips for navigating cultural differences abroadWhy studying abroad builds confidence, independence, and global awarenessFollow Margot on Instagram: @margot_in_deutschlandLearn more about the CBYX scholarship: https://usagermanyscholarship.org/For more info on YFU USA: https://yfuusa.org/Episode Chapters:00:00 – Welcome & Introduction00:22 – Meet Margot: A 15-Year-Old Exchange Student01:25 – Instagram Takeover & Social Media Reflections02:12 – Discovering the CBYX Program03:13 – Application Process & Acceptance Story06:00 – Why Go on Exchange in High School?07:00 – Preparing for Germany & Learning German08:22 – First Impressions & Language Camp10:08 – Host Family Challenges & New Beginnings12:00 – Embracing German Traditions13:26 – Favorite Festivals & Seasonal Celebrations14:04 – Weather Differences: Mississippi vs. Northern Germany15:24 – School Life & Academic Culture Shock17:16 – Favorite Subjects & Learning to Ask for Help18:00 – Extracurriculars & Playing in the School Orchestra19:27 – Making Friends & Cultural Differences21:14 – German Directness & Honest Communication22:13 – Tips for Future Exchange Students23:50 – Coping with Homesickness26:00 – Favorite German Foods (Bread Gets a Shoutout!)27:43 – Language Learning & Unexpected Growth28:49 – Staying Connected After Exchange30:22 – Breaking Stereotypes & Being an Ambassador33:05 – Traveling Across Europe34:26 – German School Traditions: “Abistreich"36:38 – Customs Margot Wants to Bring Home38:08 – Advice for Future Exchange Students39:48 – What’s Next for Margot40:56 – One Word to Describe the Experience42:09 – A Story of Independence in Munich43:25 – Final Thoughts & Where to Follow MargotHost: Kelsey RossProducer: Mel DyjakDirector: Megan Michels