The German Bundestag and U.S. Department of State are pleased to announce Norah Nosbuesch as the March 2025 Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) German Participant of the Month! Norah, a CBYX High School program participant from Dingdorf, Rhineland Palatinate, and placed by Youth for Understanding (YFU), is hosted in Aberdeen, South Dakota by the Wieland family.
Norah learned about CBYX from reading the local newspaper. Recognizing the significance of U.S.-
Germany relations, Norah was interested in learning more about the United States and was delighted to have the opportunity to spend an exchange year in the States. Aberdeen soon felt like home for Norah, as she has become part of a loving host family, made many friends, and come out of her shell. She has taken dance classes at the local recreational center, joined the school musical, and volunteered for various local events and organizations. Since starting the program, Norah has completed over 90 hours of community service. Norah’s local coordinator shares, “She immerses herself fully in every activity she’s involved in, consistently working to understand and address the needs of those around her. Her participation has had a meaningful impact on both her peers and community members, fostering a sense of unity and cultural exchange that enriches everyone involved.”
One of Norah’s favorite moments from CBYX has been participating in the program’s Civic Education Workshop, which brings CBYX participants to Washington, DC, to learn more about the federal government, meet Department of State officials, and share about their experiences with U.S. congressional members and their staff. During the workshop, Norah enjoyed learning about how the U.S. government operates first-hand, while also gaining a broader understanding of the United States from other participants living in other states.
Since coming to the United States, Norah has become more independent and open-minded. She was surprised by how kind and welcoming people are and is grateful for her host family who has proactively involved her in family activities and helped her find opportunities to be involved in the community. One aspect of U.S. culture Norah appreciates is how willing people are to give compliments to others even if they’ve only just met. She plans to apply this to her life when she returns to Germany. Before she departs though, Norah intends to make as many memories as she can and continue sharing more about her culture with others!
Congratulations, Norah!