From Germany With Growth: Exchange, CBYX, and Finding Yourself Abroad - Alex’s Story

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross sits down with Alexandra Tague, a CBYX alum who spent 2009–2010 living and studying in Germany through Youth For Understanding (YFU).Alex shares her journey from the moment she discovered the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange program to the whirlwind months of preparing to leave the U.S. at sixteen. She opens up about emotional readiness, navigating German schools, adjusting to host family life, and the reality of culture shock beyond the “honeymoon phase.”Listeners will hear stories from language camp in Hamburg, building independence on German trains, the magic of Christmas markets, and how she handled tough moments of homesickness. Alex offers heartfelt, practical advice for future exchange students and insights for host families hoping to build meaningful relationships.Now a mom of three and a longtime YFU volunteer, Alex reflects on how her exchange shaped her worldview, fueled lifelong personal growth, and continues to impact her life today.Perfect for: future exchange students, parents, host families, CBYX applicants, and anyone curious about study abroad life behind the scenes.For more info on YFU USA: https://yfuusa.org/Follow Alex on Instagram: @‌alexandrarayeeChapters:0:00 – Meet Alex & Her CBYX Exchange to Germany4:48 – Emotional Readiness & Parental Concerns8:52 – Getting Accepted & Pre‑Departure Orientation12:37 – CBYX in D.C. & Preparing to Leave the U.S.16:58 – Arriving in Germany & Language Camp Life24:02 – Meeting Her Host Family & Building Belonging34:47 – German School, Independence & Self‑Discovery39:22 – When the Honeymoon Phase Ends44:30 – Christmas Markets, Travel & Favorite Memories50:41 – How Exchange Changed Alex’s Life & Advice for StudentsHost & Producer: Kelsey RossEditor & Producer: Mel Dyjak