Youth For Understanding USA

Ruba, from Libya, is a girl with a remarkable background, having lived in China for about 3 years when she was younger. She is an artist who loves to write and draw and hopes to have a career in interior design. She attends an international school now. Her teacher states Ruba is an exceptional student, who shows great maturity and motivation. Ruba even creates study guides for her difficult courses and her writing is wonderful. Ruba has a close loving family, and as one of six, she has a share of chores to help at home. She loves having conversations with family and friends. Ruba is hoping to join a writing group at her American school or in the community. Ruba is looking forward to joining her host family and growing lifelong relationships. YES SCHOLARSHIP STUDENT

Helin from Germany is a "giver" who has served for three years as student body president, in which she initiates projects for the good of her community. Similarly she serves in other civic organizations (such as women's organizations, environmental, etc.) in her small town community. This authentic, extroverted girl credits her parents for teaching her hard work, honesty, perseverance, and kindness. She shows her loyalty in her supportive role with her little brother. Her grandparents nearby have also blessed her life, and she can play competitive boardgames with her grandpa. She's a vegetarian, but she's willing to try special holiday dishes, except for those with pork. Helin will cook some specialties for you too. She loves to attend the theater and hopes to be a part of the theater group at your high school. She swims and runs recreationally a couple times per week. Invite this bright determined girl to join your family life! CBYX SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

Gabriel from Brazil plays soccer and basketball, but he loves to play handball! He wants to try more sports, especially American ones, while on exchange. His friends, who call him Gab, say he is very loyal. Together they play sports and go out for sushi, pizza, sandwiches, or ice cream! Gabriel has many cousins who he hangs out with on weekends, and he is close with his grandparents. He spends a lot of time with them, especially as his parents tend to work long hours. They often take trips together, visiting other cities in Brazil. Gabriel says he will enjoy belonging to a new culture, new customs, and new friends. He sends HUGS to you!

Social, friendly, and with a deep sense of justice, meet Norah, from Germany. Norah lives with her mother and has two older siblings. Musically talented, Norah sings with the church choir, where she is also a soloist. She enjoys dance and is member of a jazz dance club. Structured and tidy, Norah would do well in a home with clearly established rules and order. An excellent student, Norah thrives on being busy, and, in addition to her academic studies and musical interests, she holds a part-time job as a waitress. Being the youngest, Norah functions well with adults. She says family life is harmonious and enjoys sharing events of her day over the evening meal. Her drive to be an exchange student grew after a visit to the US when she was younger. She would prefer a non-smoking family with outdoor pets only. During her exchange, Norah hopes to broaden her personal horizons and gain independence. She would enjoy a family that enjoys open discussion and wants to share cultural insights and traditions.

Marcos, from Spain, is boy who enjoys sports activities and the subject of Biology in school. He also has an interest in languages and has studied French and Chinese in addition to English. Marcos had a wonderful 3-week school experience in England and now looks forward to a full year exchange in America. He has a good relationship with his friends and family. His family often does cultural activities, such as visiting museums, and they love to travel. Marcos enjoys the outdoors, often going swimming or skiing, and plays soccer. He hopes he will be able to play on his schools soccer team. Marcos is looking forward to meeting his host family and having a great year together.

Seunghwan from Korea would be happy to share his 18th birthday with his new family soon after arriving! What a great way to kick off a wonderful year together. His English nickname is "Kyle", and while he is the oldest of two, he is following in his younger brother's footsteps as a YFU student. His brother had a wonderful experience, and now Kyle is ready to jump in to that same adventure. Kyle loves sports, while also being a diligent student. He's learned much about teamwork and cooperation through his love of soccer, basketball, and even playing American football. This considerate, kind, helpful, and funny outgoing young man loves being with people. His teacher states he is a positive energy in all he does, that he is a great student, and often helps classmates with math and science studies. Kyle's kind heart leads him to volunteering, and he serves in multiple leadership roles in & outside of school. He believes in having faith, and would like to continue attending weekly church services with his host family if possible. Kyle has a close relationship with his family, saying that his father always gives great advice, and his mother is a wonderful cook. Kyle has learned from her and would be happy to share his cooking skills with your family if you will open your kitchen, your home, and your heart to him. Kyle cant wait to shine in his exchange year, creating a happy experience with his host family and exploring his new community. Kyle comes highly recommended by his brother's host family, and they believe you will have a wonderful time with this vibrant young man.

Inquisitive Ignas from Lithuania is ready for an unforgettable experience with his Host Family. Described as ambitious, thoughtful, and friendly; Ignas hopes to learn more about himself while forming new friendships in the US. Teachers say his motivation and positive attitude are always appreciated in the classroom. At home, it's just Ignas and his parents, spending time traveling and enjoying culinary adventures together. Sports like boxing, tennis, and swimming help Ignas stay centered, and he hopes to continue doing these or even explore new athletic endeavors. In his downtime, Ignas likes to read, take walks, and meditate to relax. When feeling creative he enjoys music and cooking. Will you welcome Ignas into your home for a year of growth, friendship, and laughter?

Cross-cultural chameleon Xiomara, or "Joely" as she is also called, is ready to add some American flavor to her global view. Growing up in Spain with a Bolivian heritage, Xiomara now lives in France and is studying English and Korean! Being adaptable has become second nature to Xiomara, who enjoys being active in the community and volunteering as a way to meet peers with common interests. An active girl, Xiomara would like to continue sports like swimming, badminton, or basketball while on exchange. Her career ambitions are undecided, as she dreams of becoming a flight attendant but also fancies getting a law degree. Her teachers commend her for being attentive and always making her best effort. Xiomara hopes she will be able to attend religious services with her Host Family and will enjoy pets, too, as she will be missing her own dog. Invite multi-faceted Xiomara into your family and watch her flourish!

Meet Africa, also known as 'Dafy', a friendly 16-year-old from Spain with a passion for teamwork! Describing herself as fun and easy-going, Dafy enjoys planning activities with her family and friends. With a love for cooking and spending time with her family, Dafy cherishes calm and simple moments, whether it's making small excursions or enjoying meals together. Dafy is ready to embrace new activities that align with her interests, such as reading, drawing, and outdoor adventures. Her friends value her as a good listener, saying she is kind and full of good advice. Teachers agree, noting she is hardworking and especially excels in team-building activities where she can combine her passion for learning and helping others. Eager to immerse herself in a new culture, learn English fluently, and gain incredible experiences, Dafy says "Thank you so much for opening your home to me".

Vibrant Viktoria from Hungary has a zest for life and a passion for connecting with others! Describing herself as energetic, optimistic, and reliable, Viktoria is always ready to lend a helping hand and spread cheer wherever she goes. Known for her mischievous streak and caring nature, she's the friend who brings joy and support to every situation. Viktoria is looking forward to meeting new people, setting goals, and exploring different perspectives. With a strong background in dance and a love for nature, she hopes to continue dancing and enjoys activities like skiing and spending time outdoors with her family. Viktoria cherishes moments of solitude for reading or watching movies, but also delights in socializing with friends, whether it's shopping, volunteering, or traveling together. With a joyful family lifestyle that includes shared meals, sports, and vacations, Viktoria values quality time and laughter with her loved ones. With her open-mindedness, social nature, and strong leadership skills, Viktoria is ready to embrace new experiences, create lasting connections, and make the most of her exchange journey.

Thyerry, from Brazil, is one sporty young man. Any sport with a ball from soccer to volleyball, tennis to basketball, he does them all. Thyerry also loves to study all the sciences offered at school, along with math and PE. With friends he enjoys going to movies, listening to music and computer games. Thyerry has a close relationship with his parents and younger sister (and their two dogs). They have meals together every day. He is partial to Japanese food. Thyerry is described as respectful, open-minded and a good listener. He is very appreciative of this opportunity to live in a different culture and learn new ideas. Thyerry is looking forward to meeting his host family and beginning this amazing journey together.

Equestrian-minded Pauline from France loves horses! Although she just started horseback riding 2 years ago, she is smitten and says there is nothing better. This sweet 16 year-old from France also enjoys swimming and outdoor activities with her family. Friends appreciate Pauline for her honestly and humor, and teachers praise her kindness and patience saying she is a joy in the classroom. Pauline takes her studies seriously and hopes to one day pursue business management or even start her own company. She has previously visited the US and found herself very intrigued with our different lifestyle and school system. Pauline thanks you for opening your home and family life to her and says "See you soon!"

Meet 16 year old Phat from Vietnam who goes by the English name Jimmy. He describes himself as an active and friendly person who loves to travel and have new experiences. Of course, he can't wait to experience life and the culture of the US first hand. Jimmy appreciates every opportunity presented to him and hopes to "live life to the fullest." Jimmy is close to the members of his family, all six of them, and also enjoys time with his friends. Jimmy is passionate about soccer and can be found playing a friendly game several times a week. In school, Jimmy enjoys studying chemistry with hopes to become a scientist or psychologist in the future. Will your family greet Jimmy at the airport and introduce him to life in the US?

Sawssane is a mature, cheerful, optimistic girl from France. Her interests include music, ice skating, physical fitness, crafting and movies. At school she is a great student and loves studying the sciences and languages. Sawssane has a very close relationship with her parents and siblings and sees her cousins often. They enjoy meals, dinner time conversations, and traveling together. With friends, she often goes to the beach or to the movies and talk about life. Sawssane hopes to be able to see historical/cultural locations in her host community. Will there be a state or county fair nearby? She is an amusement park ride girl! Sawssane is thrilled and extremely grateful to be welcomed into her host family and to become a real member of the household. She knows this experience will help her leave her comfort zone and broaden her horizons. She cant wait to meet you. Sawssane will be a marvelous new daughter for your family.

Self-described as spontaneous and unpredictable, Zofia from Poland dreams of one day coming to live in the USA. Zofia is also an open and extroverted person who makes friends quickly and and is the one others can talk with openly. in short..Zofia loves being with people! She aso enjoys cooking, especially with her mother and grandmother., and being part of a dance team. When she needs to steal a few minutes for herself and relax, Zofia can be found crafting. Zofia dreams of studying to be an architect after high school. Can you help Zofia lay the foundation for the next chapter of her life by inviting this extroverted girl into your life?

Trendy, sporty, with a love of fashion and shopping, meet Jeane, from France. Jeane is social, easy-going, and ambitious; and knows what she does and doesnt like! Coming from a blended family, Jeane has two older brothers and two sisters, as well as a dog, and has no trouble staying busy. At school, she enjoys the logic in math; movement in sports; and has a love of physics and chemistry. Friends describe her as honest, sporty and full of energy! At home she shares bike rides with her dad and runs with her mom. Board games are a favorite among the kids. She has played basketball for 9 years, but looks to expand her experience while on exchange, possibly giving cheerleading or another new sport a try. Her goals for exchange include becoming truly bilingual, meeting lots of new friends, and living the American dream. Coming from a large and close-kit family, Jeanne hopes to land in a host family that is active and family-oriented. She is OK with dogs, but does NOT like cats or rats. She is excited to share French culture and cuisine; would love to see an NBA game; and is excited to investigate American fashion.

Leo is a 16 year old boy from Germany who says he is interested in a lot of different things and likes to talk and learn about them. A sporty guy, he says he likes the competition in sport activities. He plays soccer, practices judo and plays tennis - but looks forward to trying American sports such as football and basketball. Leo says he likes being active with friends, but also enjoys time alone - reading. He plays the double bass in the school orchestra. An excellent student, teachers describe him as a very interactive individual - one who listens well and respects others' opinions. He is a responsible and polite young man in all circumstances. Leo and his parents try to eat breakfast and dinner together and often play board games and chess together. He looks forward to meeting his host family and beginning his exchange experience. CBYX

Anna, 15, from Germany is a popular, humorous, and easy-going girl who is a true team player, not just in sports, but also in life. She plays basketball, she golfs, rides horses, skis, sails, and works out at the gym. She plays piano and saxophone, and sings solos in a school band. She also is an elected rep in student government and also does other social projects. She's very close to her mother and older brother, and they can communicate or laugh about just about anything. She'll enjoy continuing with a few of these activities, but knows that her versatility will also lead her to something new with you and your family! CBYX SCHOLARSHIP WINNER

Abigel, Abi from Hungary, loves being on stage in drama club! She enjoys being active and playing any sports, especially dance team, and says she might try cheerleading. Abi likes to go to the beach with her friends, or to the water park and have picnics, go shopping, and have sleepovers. On the weekends, she is with her mom and big brother, and they like to cook together. With her dad, stepmom and little brother they have an active lifestyle, and her favorite activity is going out for brunch. Rich with positivity, she is independent and loving at the same time. She is great at communicating and is a good listener. Abi says she is looking forward to learning about your customs and traditions and getting to know you!

If you are an active, close-knit family, Karl Gustav is your boy! He has grown up watching weekend soccer with his dad and brother and explains how both watching and playing made him fall in love with the game. Karl Gustav also swims with his mom twice a week and endured the pandemic by taking long daily walks with her, talking all the way. February finds the family skiing in Sweden or France, summer often finds them on long cycling tours, and any car trip means listening to music together, something he considers very special. If your favorite sport isnt soccer, swimming, skiing, or cycling, Karl Gustav is ready to learn. In addition to family activities, he plays online games with friends, stocks shelves in a grocery store, keeps up with Danish and international politics, watches world history documentaries, and is teaching himself Italian. Having visited the West Coast on a family trip, observant, talkative, enthusiastic Karl Gustav is excited to get to know your part of the U.S. and to share Danish culture with you.