Youth For Understanding USA

Introducing Antonia, a kind and creative 16 year old CBYX scholarship winner from Germany. Antonia is cheerful, and has many interests, including reading, writing, ballet, jazz dance and tennis. Her friends say that she knows her values and sets clear boundaries. And Antonia's teacher says that she is mature, motivated, persistent and has very good English language proficiency. She looks forward to experiencing American culture and traditions. Antonia can't wait to meet you! CBYX SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT.

Esther is a vibrant and curious 16-year-old girl from Germany, eager to experience life as an exchange student. With a love for English and biology, she dreams of studying medicine after taking a gap year to travel and explore the world. Esthers days are full and fulfillingwhen shes not working as a waitress or tutoring younger students in English, shes likely dancing ballet, swimming, or playing badminton. A true outdoor enthusiast, she finds joy in hiking and rock climbing. Esther describes herself as funny and endlessly curious about new cultures, which inspired her to become an exchange student. Her parents see her as mature, organized, and a ray of sunshine. With her positive spirit, strong work ethic, and adventurous heart, Esther is excited to become a meaningful addition to a new family abroad. CBYX SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT.

Maryna is a spirited and determined 16-year-old girl from Ukraine, excited to begin her journey as an exchange student. Growing up in a close-knit, active family of four that values kindness and supporting one another, Maryna brings those same values into everything she does. Her greatest passion is karate, which she has practiced for over seven years, earning numerous awards in competitions. Shes also an enthusiastic member of a local Scout program, where she spends time singing, playing games, and enjoying campfires with friendsan experience shes eager to continue in the USA. In her free time, Maryna enjoys reading, watching movies, and playing board games with her family. Deeply interested in biology and driven by a long-time dream of becoming a doctor, Maryna is not only bright and motivated but also warm and adventurous. She cannot wait to arrive in the United States and become a special part of her new American family. FLEX SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT.

Mariana from Moldova will be the perfect addition to your family! She loves to play guitar, sing, bake, hang out with family and friends, paint, and sculpt. Mariana speaks several languages including Romanian, Russian, Gagauzian, and English. Her teacher writes that Mariana is one of the best students she has ever taught, and that she will be a wonderful exchange student. Her friends say that she is open, honest, and always ready to laugh. Mariana's older brother says that she makes the best cakes! Mariana describes herself as calm thoughtful and interested in physical fitness, always ready to make friends. She loves lighting a candle, putting on the perfect music and curling up with a good book or a board game. Mariana is a FLEX Scholarship recipient.

Keita, 17, from Latvia is a small town girl with big hopes and dreams! Creative, witty and self-reliant, Keita has a passion for art which she has cultivated through four years at art school developing her talents and her appreciation of art. One surprising interest is her inclination toward cars and motor vehicles, which she developed through her father's skills as a mechanic. For the future, Keita is still deciding between law and medicine, where she might specialize in criminal defense or in neurosurgery. But now, she enjoys the good life with many friends. They do sports like tennis, volleyball, swimming or play video games or hang out, often watching local basketball tourneys. She's been in the debate club and a book club. At home, she is the oldest of the three kids still left at home and sometimes watches her younger brother. Her family enjoys movies and board games. They have no pets at the moment, but she adores them. Keita really enjoys baking, and is looking forward to American foods like chili, banana pudding, and the famous brownies and chocolate chip cookies, not to mention noodles, sushi and pizza! And because she loves languages, she has decided to learn Spanish and Japanese, as another hobby. If you're looking for a responsible self-starter, Keita is your girl! FLEX SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

Meet Mariam! Mariam is an open, adventurous, and community minded 16 year old girl from Georgia. She comes from a close knit family of 5 not counting her two dogs and one cat. Mariam volunteers in various capacities including leading a municipal youth group, spending time helping at an animal shelter, & doing environmental projects. Mariam has a passion for dance and enjoys Georgian folk dance which allows her to express herself and brings her closer to her own culture. She is also quite musical and has enjoyed playing piano for many years. Mariam maintains a busy schedule but always makes time for her family and enjoys supporting her brother at soccer games or being in the audience for her sister's performances. Mariam has already done a bit of homework in preparing for her exchange year and has started her bucket list off with Thanksgiving turkey, pumpkin pie, BBQ, Taco Bell, buffalo wings, and Crumbl cookies. She hopes to have the opportunity to participate in cheer, dance, basketball, volleyball, or join a club while on exchange. Mariam is looking forward to forming meaningful and long lasting relationships while on exchange and appreciates the opportunity to be a part of your family. FLEX SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Meet open-minded, cheerful and curious 15-year-old Ben from Germany. Ben's teachers describe him as an excellent student who works well with his peers. Ben is involved in student council in Germany. He also looks forward to improving his English skills. At home, Ben lives with his mother and seven-year-old sister. He enjoys helping his younger sister and is responsible and helpful at home. Ben enjoys cooking and baking at home. Ben also enjoys reading, particularly books about history and philosophy. Ben enjoys going to the theater and traveling with his family. Ben also enjoys meeting new people and is looking forward to meeting his host family and to making American high school friends. Ben is open to trying new sports and new school activities. Ben enjoys going to the movies and playing dominoes with his friends. Ben is grateful to his host family for the opportunity to get to know them, learn about their way of life and the American culture. Would you be the family to host helpful and enthusiastic Ben? CBYX SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT.

Meet Louis! Louis is an open-minded, thoughtful, and social 16 year old boy from Germany. He comes from a family of five where he is the older brother to two younger sisters. Louis has sang in a school choir and played tennis for several years and hopes to continue both activities while on exchange. He likes to spend time with friends and family playing basketball, tennis, video games, escape rooms, and also has a special shared interest in cars with his dad. Louis decided to spend a year in the US in order to have the opportunity to learn about American culture, sports, politics, food, and geography, He is planning to attend University after high school in order to study Law or Political Science. Louis has a deep appreciation for the role host families play in facilitating cultural exchange and is excited to become a member of your family. CBYX SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Tessa is a 15 year old German girl who says she enjoys being around and working with people. She likes being active and has many interests and hobbies. She is active in a tennis club, enjoys swimming, judo and volleyball. She is also a member of a carnival club dance group. Tessa is creative and loves crafting - making gifts for her family members and friends. She also takes care of the family pets - two rabbits. An excellent student, Tessa knows she wants to become an English teacher. Her teachers describe her as an outstanding student - always prepared and responsible. Her friendly nature makes her well liked by fellow classmates as well as teachers. She is a class representative and exhibits good leadership skills. Tessa is excited to join her host family and share experiences with them. CBYX SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT.

Leonie is a creative and enthusiastic 16 year old German girl! A focused student, her favorite subjects in school are English and politics. She is a member of a creative writing club where she hones her skills in writing poems and stories. She works on the school newspaper and tutors younger students in developing their journalistic skills. Music is a passion for Leonie. She plays the piano and has taught herself the guitar, which she plays in the school band. She enjoys listening to music, singing and dancing classical ballet. Leonie combines her interests by writing her own songs. When she finds herself with spare tine, she likes to read and bake - especially sweets. Leonie says she and her parents try to have meals together - after which they watch movies or attend musical concerts. This bright and talented young lady is excited to join her host family and begin this amazing adventure. CBYX SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT

Meet Baran! Baran is a respectful, motivated, and athletic 15 year old boy from Germany. His family is made up of his mother, father, and older brother. He is very family oriented and prioritizes time with good friends as he believes strong relationships are one of the keys to a happy life. Baran enjoys participating in a variety of sports which include soccer, which he has played for 10 years, as well as volleyball, running, basketball, and calisthenics. Other typical pastimes with friends and family are playing chess, boardgames, video games, table tennis, watching movies, & cooking. He is planning to attend University after high school and is planing to pursue a degree in mathematics, science, or medicine ideally in the US. Baran is excited to improve his language skills while on exchange, become more open-minded, participate in high school sports, form new lasting friendships, and greatly appreciates the opportunity to become a part of your family. CBYX SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Driven by a curiosity about how things work, Benjamin, from Germany, is excited to weave his interests and knowledge of the world into his experience in American culture. He loves to push the limitsboth his own, and those with limitations of physics, by skydiving, skiing, scuba diving, running, biking, hiking, and experimenting with engines and aviation. Demanding sports taught me to balance ambition and awareness, so every decision is carefully considered, says Benjamin. Friends say he is consistent and polite; intelligent, both academically and emotionally; and is both ambitious and relaxed. The youngest of 3 brothers, Benjamin says his family is all about quality time together, whether through active, outdoor adventures or quiet evenings at home. His hobbies include engineering projects; astronomy; aviation; reading; hanging out with friends; and spending quiet time in nature. Always driven toward self-improvement, his goals for his exchange are to expand his horizons, perspectives, knowledge, and social circle. About life, Benjamin proclaims, Openness lets me adapt, enjoy and experience lifes diversity! CBYX SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT

Hannah is a 16 year old girl from Germany with many interests and lots of energy. An excellent student, teachers describe her as dedicated to doing her best, responsible and supportive of others. Hannah is editor of the school paper and enjoys writing articles for publication. She is also a member of the group fostering understanding and breaking down stereotypes through personal exchanges. Hannah has been a member of a field hockey team for 12 years and coaches a group of young boys as well. She loves the friendships among the team members, as well as the physical workout and sense of competition. As a coach, she enjoys sharing her expertise and watching skills improve and commitment to the sport grow. Hannah plays the piano and enjoys listening to a variety of music genre from her record collection. Among her many hobbies are photography, reading, drawing and writing short stories - all of which she says provide her with creativity, relaxation and adventure. Since Hannah has a close relationship with her own family (Mom, Dad and older sister), she is looking forward to becoming a part of her host family and having a lot of adventures with them. CBYX Scholarship Student.

Sporty and musical Nils is fascinated by the United States! He dreams of experiencing what, up until now, he has only seen and heard about in documentaries, podcasts, and the movies. Nils is an avid football fan--both European football (soccer) and American football--as well as a basketball fan. His biggest passion, he says, is music--particularly listening to music. He admits to liking to his music loud; but never fear, he promises to wear headphones! An excellent student, Nils has aspirations of becoming an aerospace engineer in the future. Nils would love the opportunity to be a part of your family; would you consider inviting him into your life?

Meet Linda! Linda is a community-minded, empathic, and cheerful 16 year old girl from a small town in Germany. She comes from a family of 4 if you dont count their dog, cat, and guinea pigs. She is passionate about being an active member of her church where she volunteers to lead youth programs and organize events. She also volunteers with the German Red Cross Youth organization which promotes health, environment, peace, and international understanding. Linda likes to stay active by doing pilates, swimming, and going for walks. She is planning to pursue a career in social work focused on children and teens ideally through the church. She is excited about making new friends while on exchange, improving her language skills, learning about American culture, and experiencing high school rites of passage like prom, homecoming, and Friday night football games. Linda is excited to become a part of your family and make wonderful memories together. CBYX SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Meet adventurous, open-minded, and extroverted Lara from Germany. Lara's teachers have indicated that Lara is an excellent student who interacts well with her peers and her teachers. Lara enjoys competitions like those in a debate club or math club. Lara has been a volunteer with Unicef programs for children, as a handball referee, and as a tutor for younger students. Lara hopes to continue swimming and karate while on exchange. Lara enjoys skiing and hopes to be able to try surfing while on exchange. Lara enjoys reading, listening to all kinds of music, baking, playing board games, going to the beach, and going to the movies with friends. She is grateful to her new host family for welcoming her into their home. She looks forward to spending time with you sharing cultures and family activities together. Lara likes dogs and cats and would enjoy getting to know the family pet dog or cat as well. Lara also helps around the house emptying the dishwasher, keeping her room clean, as well as other chores as needed. Would you like to welcome this well rounded, polite and joyful student into your home for a year of exchange? CBYX Scholarship Recipient

Meet Helene, a 15 year old who sees herself as a bright, positive and open person. She loves archery, rowing, cooking and baking, and would love to try fishing, wrestling and American football while in the US. Her friends say that she is funny and welcoming, and takes time to include everyone into the group. Her teacher says that she is motivated and sociable, and encourages others to do their best. And she has excellent English language proficiency! Are you ready to welcome this special young lady into your family? CBYX Scholarship Recipient

Meet Frey! Frey is a respectful, family oriented, and athletic 16 year old young man from Germany. His family consists of his mother, stepfather, younger brother, and the family cat. Frey enjoys spending time with his family which often includes soccer with his younger brother or helping him with school work. He also likes to stay active by playing volleyball, tennis, and going to the gym but also likes to spend time drawing and cooking. Frey is very civic minded and participates in student government at his school, volunteers with the local junior fire department, and tutors other young children. He is interested in pursing a career in engineering, law, or politics after he graduates from University. Frey is excited to be able to improve his English while on exchange, participate in high school sports, and become part of your family. CBYX SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

Caring and curious Jule, from Germany, is ready to begin her exchange experience in the United States. Her love for others and her sense of empathy are just a couple things that friends love about her. In school, she enjoys learning English and studying biology. She also participates in a club that goes to a facility for those with disabilities, spending time with them, helping with crafts and just talking about everything from their day to memories of their past. Her love of science and her passion for others have led her to want to pursue a career in neuroscience, where she would like to practice medicine as well as research Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases. While on exchange, Jule hopes that she will gain confidence in meeting new people, discover things that she has never experienced before and become more independent and open to new things. She would also like to try cross country or track, and possibly other sports. Will you welcome Jule into your family and help her experience all the new things an exchange year has to offer? CBYX Scholarship Recipient

Say hello to 14 year old Monica from Spain! An social and sporty girl, Monica loves to play basketball and spend time with her family and friends. Family is an important part of Monica's life, and she treasures all the times she gets to spend with those closest to her. As a way to relax, Monica likes to listen to music and to paint. She is excited to experience all that life in America has to offer: from new cultures, to new foods, to academic pursuits. Monica is ready to meet you and have the time of her life; are you ready to meet her?