In this episode of Life Exchanged: Stories of Understanding, host Kelsey Ross speaks with Matt Burke, a YFU alum and CBYX scholarship recipient, about his transformative year studying abroad in Germany. From his early inspiration to the challenges of cultural adjustment and host family dynamics, Matt shares how his exchange experience shaped his identity, resilience, and future.
Matt reflects on the emotional highs and lows of his time abroad, the importance of communication and community, and how he found strength through adversity. He also discusses his continued involvement with YFU, mentoring new exchange students and helping them prepare for their own journeys. This episode is a heartfelt look at the power of exchange to change lives—and how one year abroad can echo for decades.
Read Matt’s writing: mathewburke.co
Follow Matt on Instagram: @mattburke_writer