Exchange Became Lifelong Family - Megan's Story

Описание: In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross interviews Megan Herndon—a former CBYX exchange student to Germany, now a dedicated YFU host mom and volunteer. Megan shares her incredible journey from learning German in high school to living in post-Berlin Wall Germany, navigating cultural differences, and building lifelong relationships.

Now hosting her sixth exchange student, Megan offers valuable insights into what makes a successful host family, how to support students through cultural adjustment, and the importance of communication and empathy. She also shares funny and touching stories from her time abroad and as a host, including language mishaps, cultural traditions, and the impact of exchange on her career at Volkswagen.

Whether you're a future exchange student, a curious parent, or someone considering hosting, this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and inspiration.

Tags: #ExchangeStudent #YFU #CBYX #HostFamily #CulturalExchange #GermanLanguage #Volkswagen #InternationalEducation #StudyAbroad #LifeExchangedPodcast #MeganHerndon #KelseyRoss

Connect with Megan on Social
Facebook:   / megan.m.herndon   &   / herndon.jt  
Instagram:   / megan1996mills   &   / jt_herndon  

For more info on YFU USA: ⁠https://yfuusa.org/

Chapters:
00:00 – Funny Cultural Misunderstandings
00:25 – Meet Simone & Her Global Background
03:33 – Discovering Study Abroad Through YouTube
04:10 – Choosing YFU & Preparing for Japan
08:02 – Getting Accepted & Scholarship Joy
09:19 – Convincing Her Parents & Host Family Placement
13:21 – Building a Relationship Before Arrival
14:31 – Packing, Gifts & First Impressions of Japan
19:50 – Orientation, Embassy Visit & School Life
23:00 – Meeting Her Host Family in Person
25:23 – Attending Japanese High School & First Day Surprises
30:03 – Making Friends & Cultural Differences
33:35 – School Traditions: Cleaning, Clubs & Christian Practices
35:49 – Joining the Basketball Team
37:29 – Challenges & Staying Positive
40:14 – Exploring Hiroshima & Favorite Foods
46:28 – Summer Vacation & Reflections on Program Length
49:55 – Emotional Goodbye & Final Thoughts
52:16 – Advice for Future Exchange Students
54:25 – How Exchange Shaped Her Future Plans
57:05 – What’s Next for Simone
59:02 – Where to Follow Simone’s Journey


Host & Producer: Kelsey Ross
Editor & Producer: Mel Dyjak
Director: Megan Michels