Jan first learned about CBYX while interning for the German Bundestag. Passionate about global affairs and politics, Jan believes that “the world needs more dialogue” between countries to build a more peaceful world. Through CBYX, Jan saw an opportunity to foster dialogue and goodwill between the United States and Germany as a citizen diplomat.
Since arriving in the United States, Jan has immersed himself in the local community and embraced American culture, including joining his school’s football team. He has also helped Americans learn more about Germany by delivering presentations and even preparing homemade schnitzel. Jan plans to deliver at least five presentations in his community, including at his host school and local businesses. He regularly shares his experiences in America through blogs, articles, and social media posts, helping people back home learn more about life in the United States.
As a dedicated volunteer in his community, Jan consistently seeks out opportunities to serve others. He works with multiple volunteer organizations and his school’s Interact Club to give back to the place he now calls home. Jan’s many volunteer projects include helping at the local soup kitchen, delivering meals in the community, launching a holiday card writing campaign for nursing home residents, preparing gift baskets to honor U.S. veterans, and delivering presents to low-income families ahead of Christmas.
Through his CBYX experience in the United States, Jan has grown in ways he never expected. Jan notes, "I’ve had to navigate unfamiliar systems, build new friendships from scratch, and learn to communicate more openly. All of which strengthen my social and intercultural skills. Experiencing American culture while representing my home country has helped me understand both perspectives better. I’ve learned how important it is to appreciate differences instead of being intimidated by them. Overall, this year is making me a more responsible, open-minded, and globally aware person.”
Congratulations, Jan!