German student Jessica Raboin writes the folowing about her experience:
This is the program I did. CBYX It is an EXCELLENT program that is FREE minus spending cash ($300/month I needed). If you ever want me to talk to a class about this opportunity, or a specific student, please let me know. I would love too. I had a life-curving experience that continues to shape what I am and who I want to be today--it was truly a transformative year. I not only began learning the German language and culture from the moment I stepped on the plane to my orientation in D.C., but along the way I learned about dozens of other cultures, languages and customs, which has improved my communication and critical thinking skills. Plus, I had the best host family ever! I have nothing bad to say about the program. Anyway, just letting you know. -- Jessica
Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals
The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) for Young Professionals is a full-year work-study fellowship program with a strong focus on cultural exchange. CBYX annually provides 75 young Americans with an understanding of everyday life, education, and professional training in Germany.
The program begins in July and includes two months of intensive German language training (no prior German language knowledge required), four months of classroom instruction at a German university or college of applied sciences, and a five-month internship in each participant’s career field.
The CBYX for Young Professionals program is intended primarily for young adults in business, vocational, scientific, engineering, technical, and agricultural fields, though applicants from all fields are encouraged to apply.
Participants actively participate in securing their internship positions with assistance from our partner organization in Germany, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, and are expected to cover incidental expenses as well as represent the United States diplomatically while abroad.
Program Benefits
•Full-year scholarship including round-trip transatlantic flight, university tuition, language training, living stipend, and program-related travel costs in Germany
•Two-months German language training in Germany
•Four months of study at a German university or university of applied sciences
•Five-month internship in a German-speaking work environment
•Accommodation in a German home or student residence
•Orientation, midyear, and final evaluation seminars
•In-country support throughout the program
•Health and accident insurance
Eligibility
Candidates for CBYX must meet the following eligibility requirements:
•U.S. citizen or permanent resident
•18-24 years old at the beginning of the program
•Minimum of high school diploma or equivalent
•Completed general coursework in target internship field at a community college, college, or university
•Completed some relevant work experience (short-term, volunteer, or internship) in target internship field
•Previous knowledge of the German language is preferred, but is not required
•Ideal candidates have clear career goals, good communication skills, and exhibit flexibility and diplomacy
Applcation Deadline: December 1, 2012 for the 2013–2014 program year.
For more information click here.
