The First Week Abroad: Culture Shock and Finding My Art — Musfirah's Story

In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, Musfirah shares her inspiring journey as a high school exchange student in the U.S. through the prestigious Kennedy-Lugar YES Scholarship Program. Originally from Bangladesh, Musfirah opens up about navigating culture shock, celebrating Ramadan abroad, and adjusting to life with a host family in small-town Michigan.From racing through a whirlwind three-day departure prep to discovering unexpected connections in her host community, Musfirah’s story is full of joyful surprises. She reflects on the challenges of adapting to American high school life, experiencing snow for the first time, and embracing U.S. holidays like Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.Musfirah also shares how international education helped her grow in confidence, creativity, and independence, inspiring her to pursue an American curriculum back home.🎙️ Whether you're curious about the YES Program, study abroad opportunities for teens, or the transformative power of cultural exchange, this episode is a must-listen.Keywords: Kennedy-Lugar YES Program, high school exchange student, study abroad USA, Bangladeshi student in America, youth exchange, intercultural understanding, global citizenship, American high school experienceFollow Musfirah on Instagram: @musfirahmedFor more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/Chapters:00:00 – A Small World & Introduction to Musfirah01:09 – Discovering and Applying for the YES Program02:27 – What the YES Program Is & Why It Matters04:04 – The Journey to the U.S. & First Impressions06:08 – Host Family, Cultural Adjustments & School Life13:53 – Trying New Things: Sports, Art, and Holidays21:54 – Celebrating Ramadan & Sharing Culture26:53 – Memorable Moments: Red Carpet, Prom & Art Show30:06 – Growth, Self-Discovery & Future Plans35:56 – Advice for Students & Host Families38:50 – What’s Next for Musfirah & Final ReflectionsHost & Producer: Kelsey RossEditor & Producer: Mel DyjakDirector: Megan Michels