The U.S. Department of State and German Bundestag are pleased to announce Jara Mortusewicz as the May 2025 Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) German Participant of the Month! Jara, a CBYX High School program participant from Munich, Bavaria, and placed by CIEE, is hosted by the Hornack family in Chatsworth, California.
Studying abroad has been a dream of Jara’s since the fourth grade. Upon hearing about CBYX in high school, Jara was excited to have apply and be part of the program. Throughout her time in California, Jara has continued to find ways to challenge herself, build new friendships, and give back to others. With enthusiasm, she immersed herself into her host school and community. She took part in her school’s musical production of Grease, played in a jazz ensemble as a violinist, and participated in Speech and Debate. She’s been a regular volunteer at a local food bank and has loved being able to help those in need. Jara also had the opportunity to produce a short student documentary on suicide awareness and acted in a short film called “Aftermath.” Both were shown at the Making Movies that Matter Youth Short Film Festival in California, and the latter won an award. On top of this, Jara also spoke at a symposium, where she discussed the concerns, fears, motivation, and perceptions of young people in Germany and the United States.
Jara had no idea just how much she would change through a year of study abroad or that she would “be able to build such deep connections and meaningful relationships and leave having found absolutely amazing friends and a second home.” For anyone considering study abroad, Jara explained that “the key to making the most of your exchange year is to get involved and try as many things as possible. Join theater, sports, clubs, music bands, speech and debate, or do community service—whatever your school and community have to offer. You might find something you never thought you’d be passionate about.”
Congratulations, Jara!