On behalf of the U.S. Department of State, it is our pleasure to announce the newest cohort of the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) for Young Professionals program! Seventy-five young professionals from the United States were selected for the 2022-2023 exchange. They will leave for Germany on July 30th for an 11-month program of intensive language studies, homestay, internship and university study with placements throughout Germany.
The 2022-2023 cohort represent 33 states and Puerto Rico. Senior Director of CBYX Daniel Villanueva stated, “This year’s cohort is one of our more diverse ones both in terms of demographics and in occupations, and we’re confident they will make a lot out of their time in Germany.” Participant career goals include architectural preservation, UX/UI Design, film production, culinary arts, sports medicine, and automotive engineering.
Celebrating its 39th anniversary as a joint program of the German Bundestag and U.S. Congress, CBYX for Young Professionals provides 75 American and 75 German young leaders the opportunity to spend up to a year in each other’s countries studying, interning, and living with host families. The fellowship is open to candidates in all career fields between the ages of 18 ½ and 24 who are interested in a year of academic, professional, and cultural exchange. CBYX also offers opportunities for high school students and individuals interested in vocational training. You can learn more about the CBYX program at exchanges.state.gov/cbyx.
Cultural Vistas administers the CBYX for Young Professionals program through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. For additional information about CBYX for Young Professionals please visit our webpage.
If you have any questions about our cohort or the CBYX for Young Professionals program, please contact us at cbyx@culturalvistas.org or 212-497-3555.
Our cohort at a glance:
- 22 years old – average age of fellows on the program start date
- 29.7% of fellows had little to no German language skills when they applied for the program
- 46% of fellows come from humanities fields
- 46% of fellows come from STEM fields
- 6% of fellows come from arts fields
- 3% of fellows come from vocational fields
Meet our 39th Cohort below!
Erika Warren
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Berea College
Professional Field:
Management
Erika Warren recently graduated from Berea College with a B.A. in German and minors in Mathematics and Business Administration. During her year with CBYX, she intends to pursue a management internship and work on improving her German fluency. In the future, Erika aims to complete an M.A. in Global Business Management.
Michelle Ailport
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Arizona State University
Professional Field:
Journalism
Michelle Ailport is a graduate of the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University. She has interned at Wall Street Journal, The Arizona Republic, USA TODAY, Arizona PBS and the Arizona Secretary of State’s Office, and has contributed to the Phoenix New Times. She intends to pursue an internship with a German media outlet, and eventually, she hopes to work in audience engagement as a journalist.
Katherine Ciaramello
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Arizona State University
Professional Field:
Economics
Katherine recently graduated from Arizona State University with a B.S. in Economics and a B.S. in Mathematics with a concentration in Statistics and a certificate in Applied Business Data Analytics. While in Germany, she is excited to immerse herself in the German culture and language, while continuing to learn in her fields of study. In the future, Katherine hopes to attend graduate school in economics.
Josue Luna
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of California, San Diego
Professional Field:
Mechanical Engineering
Josue Luna graduated from the University of California, San Diego in 2021 with a major in Mechanical Engineering. At UCSD, Josue worked as an undergraduate researcher where he contributed to the evaluation of mechanical properties of biological materials. His experiences confirmed his career goals to research and create high performing materials. He plans to continue his education by studying engineering at a German university and securing an internship in automotive/aviation research and design. Josue believes his participation in the CBYX program will make him a well-rounded professional and hopes to make meaningful connections with German Engineers and Scientists. Following the CBYX program, Josue will enroll in graduate studies in Materials Science and Engineering and hopefully one day work for the U.S Government and contribute to Materials Science research.
Ah’lizah Nelson
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of California, Los Angeles
Professional Field:
Public Health
Ah’lizah Nelson recently graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology. In the Summer, prior to her departure to Germany she will be continuing a research assistantship in Social Justice Pedagogy and Education within the UCLA department of European Languages and Transcultural Studies. While in Germany, Ah’lizah intends to apply her backgrounds in research, Sociology and the Health Profession in her pursuit of finding an internship in the field of Public Health. She looks forward to immersing herself in German culture, engaging with local communities and improving her German language skills. Following the CBYX program year, Ah’lizah hopes to enroll in a Master’s program to further her education in social science research and intersectionalities within fields of Sociology and Public Health on a global scale.
Evelyn Roberts
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Yale University
Professional Field:
Life Sciences
Evelyn Roberts graduated from Yale University in 2019 with a degree in Cognitive Science, where she was a member of the Women’s Track and Field Team and First-Year Outdoor Orientation Trips (FOOT) leader. Since graduation, she has been working as a consultant in Boston, where she has focused on projects within pharmaceuticals and talent & organization. During her time in Germany, she hopes to gain experience in a life sciences-related field.
Nat Sandoval
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of California, Berkeley
Professional Field:
Government
Nat Sandoval is a recent graduate of the University of California, Berkeley where she studied international affairs. She has recently been employed as an analyst at Public Equity Group, a diverse team of strategy and management consultants mobilized to help visionary leaders and organizations achieve impact. In Germany, Nat hopes to help forge global connections while learning German from scratch, as CBYX is an unapparelled, culturally immersive experience. After CBYX, Nat will attend Georgetown University for her masters.
Bridgette Palman
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Florida Atlantic University
Professional Field:
International Relations
Bridgette Palman is currently a logistics analyst at a logistics firm. Before her present position, she gained nonprofit management experience as a grant writing intern at a nonprofit and as an executive board member of Florida Atlantic University’s Student Alumni Association. In college, Bridgette studied political science focusing on global governance — with which she received diplomatic training as a member of FAU’s diplomacy program. She participated in multiple National Model United Nations conferences and contributed to several national titles and awards. Bridgette graduated magna cum laude and as a University Honors Scholar at Florida Atlantic University in 2021.
Jenna Byrd
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Georgia College & State University
Professional Field:
Marketing and Communications
Jenna Byrd recently graduated from Georgia College & State University in Milledgeville, Georgia. She obtained a Bachelor’s of Arts in Mass Communication with a pathway in Strategic Communication and a minor in Marketing. In her time enrolled at GCSU, she also obtained her Film & Television Production Certification from the Georgia Film Academy. She was a member of the executive boards for the Public Relations Student Society of America and Lambda Pi Eta (the national communications honor society). More recently, she has been working with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Heart of Georgia as a Communication and Videography Intern. Byrd has taken a total of six years of German language classes throughout her life. She is excited to become more immersed in the country’s culture over her time there.
Kailyn Gibson
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Williams College
Professional Field:
Museums/Art Galleries
Kailyn Gibson graduated from Williams College in 2022 with a Bachelors of Art in Art and Spanish. She recently opened her first art exhibition while at Williams, and intends to pursue coursework in Germany to expand her knowledge of German art history and practice, and its influence on associated policies and the market. In the past, she has interned at museums and galleries across North America, gaining an intercontinental education in museum operations and business practice. She hopes to intern at an arts organization or gallery to understand how these institutions operate within Germany, while also gaining an international perspective of the art world. She looks forward to pursuing these interests, while also combining her passion for continued language learning.
Ethan Pettepher
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Mercer University
Professional Field:
Public Health
Ethan Pettepher recently graduated from Mercer University and is a proud alumni of Sprayberry Highschool and the Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity. He recently received a B.S. in Neuroscience and a B.A. in Global Health Studies and hopes to pursue these fields of study and professional experience while in Germany. He will be spending the summer working as a medical assistant at a local urgent care clinic until he leaves for Germany. Ethan hopes to be able to get hands-on experience within the German Public Health sector in order to draw insightful comparisons to the public health systems in the US.
Marleena Tamminen
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Georgia
Professional Field:
Economics
Marleena Tamminen recently graduated from the University of Georgia with degrees in Economics and German. She plans to pursue a career in economics research and hopes to gain relevant experience and learn to talk about economics in German during her program year. She is most excited about meeting new people, improving her German, and spending time in Germany’s beautiful nature!
Kaiwen Wang
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Georgia Tech
Professional Field:
Software Development
Kaiwen Wang is a Computer Science student at Georgia Tech with simple yet rewarding hobbies such as cooking, exercising, reading, writing, and traveling. This summer, he plans to intern at NCR in Atlanta, a point of sale and payment solutions software and technology company. Before that, he interned at BMW, a German automaker, and Crown Equipment Corporation, a major lift truck company. He is finally looking forward to spending a year in Germany after the 37th cohort of CBYX was made virtual due to the coronavirus pandemic. While abroad, he hopes to better understand the German culture, lifestyle, and language.
Ren Nakamura
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Hawai’i Manoa
Professional Field:
Psychology Research
Ren Nakamura graduated from the University of Hawai’i Manoa with a B.S. in Psychology and a B.A. in German in 2021. He has spent his time as an RBT in the months after graduating, and is now looking forward to experiencing new and different opportunities in Germany through the CBYX program.
Ryan Wagner
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Idaho
Professional Field:
Computer Science
Ryan Wagner is an undergrad at the University of Idaho. He majors in Computer Science and Spanish with a minor in German (major not offered). He would like to intern in either a embedded systems or artificial intelligence software engineering position. Ryan loves learning languages and traveling. He hopes to gain some new friends, contacts, and experiences.
Grace Armon
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Macalester College
Professional Field:
Public Health
Grace Armon recently graduated from Macalester College with a major in Geography and two concentrations in Urban Studies and Community & Global Health, with her main focus being medical geography and place effects on health. Before leaving for Germany, she will spend her 4th summer working as a counselor at Waldsee German Language Village at Concordia Language Villages. In Germany, she hopes to pursue an internship in spatial epidemiology, community or maternal and child health, sex education, or medical geography, before hopefully completing a Masters of Public Health in the coming years.
Kaleigh O’Brien
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Loyola University Chicago
Professional Field:
Secondary Education
Kaleigh O’Brien recently graduated from Loyola University Chicago with a major in Physics and a minor in German Studies. Before leaving for Germany in the fall, Kaleigh is working at Loyola in a environmental microbiology lab under a pre-service Research Experience for Teachers grant. Her minor capstone project focused on the pedagogical differences in physics education in the United States and Germany and she hopes to continue broadening that knowledge through an educational policy internship while in Germany next year.
Terey Tellez
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign
Professional Field:
UX/UI Design
Terey Tellez graduated form the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign with a BFA in Industrial Design. Prior to starting the trip, he will be a Team Director for Galileo, a summer camp that teaches STEAM activities in Chicago. He will take classes and intern while in Germany to develop his understanding of human-centered design, marketing, and digital arts as a whole. He plans to marry his lessons in Germany and passions to make a social impact and help communities in the US.
Evalina Grimaldi
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Iowa State University
Professional Field:
Chemical Engineering
Evalina Grimaldi is studying chemical engineering with a minor in mathematics at Iowa State University. She will be teaching programming and rocketry classes to school children in the Des Moines area before departing for Germany. She intends to serve an internship at a chemical manufacturing facility in Germany and to either work in EHS or process engineering.
Katherine Overby
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Louisiana State University
Professional Field:
Political Science
Katherine Overby recently graduated cum laude from Louisiana State University with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and minors in German and Political Science. Throughout the last four years, Katherine has served as President of LSU’s German Club, Treasurer of LSU’s Society for International Affairs, and volunteered as an English tutor for the Immigrant and Refugee Program at Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans. Katherine was employed as a student worker for the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and the Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism. Following graduation, she was hired as the Human Resources Coordinator for the department, where she will continue to work until her departure. Katherine is currently working on publishing her senior thesis entitled “The Effect of Initial Female Election on the Subsequent Electability of Women” In Germany, Katherine will be pursuing an internship with a focus in political science research to expand her experience as a researcher.
Lucien Wallace
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Professional Field:
Mechanical or Environmental Engineering
Lucien Wallace just finished his Junior year at Worcester Polytechnic Institute studying Mechanical Engineering and Environmental & Sustainability Studies. He is currently working with research teams at WPI studying Magnesium-Air Batteries, and designing and building remote controlled camera rigs. Lucien’s goal during the program is to study environmental engineering in Germany. He hopes to use the experience from this incredible opportunity to help build a career in renewable energies research and engineering.
Rahmah Davis
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Morgan State University
Professional Field:
Architecture
Rahmah Davis, a native Baltimorean graduated with a Bachelors degree in Architecture and Environmental Design from Morgan State University was selected for the 2022-2023 CBYX Exchange Program. She grew up surrounded by different cultures and people which molded her into becoming a learner, listener and leader. She aims to continue to explore different ways of living to help her design with purpose. She looks forward to learning from the country that birthed the Bauhaus movement, and a place rich with European history and culture. Taking the lessons learned from family, life and her alma mater she hopes to design with intentionality, addressing the problems and designing solutions.
Israa El Saudi
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Massachusetts, Boston
Professional Field:
Clinical Research
Israa El Saudi graduated from the University of Massachusetts Boston with a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Public Policy. After graduating, she worked in a research lab at Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Institute. In Germany, she intends to pursue an internship within the clinical field with the hopes of entering medical school in the future.
Pauline Flanagan
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Boston College
Professional Field:
Marketing
Pauline Flanagan is a recent graduate of Boston College, where she completed her Bachelor of Science in Management with concentrations in Marketing and Information Systems. She enjoys languages and studied German in addition to her French minor. Over the summer, Pauline will continue to coach weekly learn-to-skate classes with both children and adults. While in Germany, she hopes to join a synchronized skating team and to intern at a sustainable consumer products company. Pauline intends to harness her experiences as a Young Professionals fellow to pursue improvements that have ethical and moral implications on the global cosmetics industry, such as reduction of environmental impact, greater emphasis placed on philanthropy, and more inclusion for underrepresented groups.
Olivia Hintz
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Michigan Ann Arbor
Professional Field:
Renewable Energy Policy
Olivia Hintz is a recent graduate from the University of Michigan Ann Arbor with a BS in Environmental Science and minors in German and Writing. Before heading to Germany, she’ll be living in northern Michigan for an ecological science camp and continuing to run her non-profit for menstrual product accessibility, The Dot Org. She will also continue researching wind energy in Michigan through U-M’s Graham Sustainability Institute. For her professional path, she’s particularly interested in renewable energy and green technology. Through CBYX, she hopes to further her German language skills, explore European nature and culture, and learn more about the German environmental industry. She also plans to continue her social advocacy work wherever she resides.
Zsolt Palmer
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Grand Valley State University
Professional Field:
Chemistry/Microbiology
Zsolt Palmer is studying Cell and Molecular Biology at Grand Valley State University. He currently researches molecular enzymes through computational means as a lab assistant. In Germany, he hopes to improve his fluency in the language, and to experience the German approach to scientific research. In the future, he hopes to go into research in the field of biology to find treatments for aging-related ailments.
Emma Dalenberg
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Minnesota
Professional Field:
Multimedia Journalism
Emma Dalenberg recently graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Psychology. While completing her University education, Emma pursued a career in Stand Up Comedy, performing all around the US and even a few shows in Germany. Making a mark within her local scene, Emma was voted one of Racket Magazine’s 5 Comics to Watch and has been featured twice in the Star Tribune for her stand-up achievements. Along with comedic performance, Emma explored her passion for multimedia storytelling, working as a Creative Copywriting Intern for Best Buy Corporate, a Production Intern at KSTP-TV Twin Cities Live, and assisting local independent filmmakers. In Germany, she hopes to continue stand-up performance, grow her skills as a storyteller, and work for an organization that utilizes multimedia storytelling to support grassroots activism.
Payton Johnson
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of St. Thomas
Professional Field:
Conservation Biology
Payton Johnson recently graduated from the University of St. Thomas with majors in Environmental Science and German and a minor in Sustainability. She will be working at an aquatic ecology research lab this summer and hopefully finishing her research manuscript before leaving for Germany in August. Payton is passionate about preserving threatened ecosystems and promoting access to natural spaces and is looking forward to learning more about the German models of sustainability and conservation in the coming year. She hopes to apply the skills she develops during this program to a lifelong career of repairing global ecological damage and promoting sustainable urban living.
Audrey Kellar
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Macalester College
Professional Field:
Genetic Counseling
Audrey Kellar is a recent graduate from Macalester College in Saint Paul, MN. She majored in neuroscience and minored in German Studies. She’s been learning German off and on for the past eight years and is immensely excited to finally get the chance to put her knowledge to the test! She’s hoping to find an opportunity to work in a genetics research lab while in Germany to continue a passion she recently discovered this past year in a lab at the University of Minnesota. As someone with a rare disorder and family history of rare genetic disorders, Audrey is hoping to soak up all the knowledge she can from these lab experiences to cultivate a career in genetic counseling. As she’s gotten older, Audrey has realized that her disorder is nothing to be ashamed of and that her experiences can help to show others that a disability diagnosis is not the end of the world. On a lighter note, she’s also really excited to go abroad for the first time in her life!
Ava Chisholm
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Carleton College
Professional Field:
Broadcast Radio
Ava Chisholm graduated with honors from the Music Department at Carleton College in 2022. She specialized in Jazz Guitar and Composition. She also spent a semester studying Sound Engineering and Music Production at the Royal Danish Academy of Music. Ava currently works as a Production Assistant for Minnesota Public Radio’s Classical Music department. She also teaches guitar remotely to underprivileged students across the U.S. for a non-profit organization. While in Germany, Ava intends to continue her work in Broadcast Radio, and keep practicing her instruments before auditioning for a Master’s in Jazz Guitar next fall.
Cecelia Grasseschi
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Pennsylvania
Professional Field:
International Relations
Cecelia will graduate from the University of Pennsylvania in August 2022 with a B.S. in Economics, concentrating in Business, Economics and Public Policy, and a B.A. in International Studies with a German minor. Cecelia has focused on gaining international experiences and has previously taken on an internship with Deutsche Börse in Frankfurt, as well a remote internship with ACN Worldwide, a company headquartered in Shanghai, China. In Germany, she intends to pursue International Relations with focuses in economics and finance. After her program year, Cecelia wants to work in International Development, taking special interest in renewable energy and the climate crisis.
Elizabeth Rigby
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Oberlin College
Professional Field:
Chemistry
Elizabeth Rigby graduated from Oberlin College in 2022 with a degree in Chemistry and German. She is currently working on finishing up the last touches of her undergraduate research project on fluorescence and stability of derivatized neurotransmitters. She is looking forward to expanding her collaborations and sharing her favorite books, games, and movies during her year in Germany. Professionally, Elizabeth is interested in pursuing graduate work in chemistry.
Neha Aluwalia
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Rutgers University, New Brunswick
Professional Field:
International Relations and Politics
Neha Aluwalia graduated from Rutgers University, New Brunswick with a double-major in Political Science and German. She intends to spend her time in Germany learning about international relations and political science. She is excited to work towards fluency in German and explore different areas in Germany! In her free time, she enjoys reading, baking, and spending time outdoors. Neha intends on starting law school once returning to the United States.
Alli Ashby
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Howard University
Professional Field:
Automotive Engineering
Alli Ashby is a recent graduate from Howard University, where she majored in Mechanical Engineering and minored in History. In addition to participating in the CBYX program, in the fall she will be starting her Masters in Systems Engineering at Cornell University, virtually. While in Germany, Alli intends to pursue an internship in Automotive Engineering. She is very excited to learn German and visit Germany for the first time! While there, she hopes to educate Germans on American culture and its diversity.
Dan Baxter
Most Recent Educational Institution:
George Washington University
Professional Field:
International Affairs
Dan Baxter recently graduated from George Washington University with a BA in international affairs. He is interning for a political nonprofit until he leaves for Germany in July. Dan intends to pursue a career involving US foreign policy and transatlantic relations. Upon arrival in Germany, he hopes to intern in a position involving international affairs and German foreign policy.
Daniel Kim
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Yale University
Professional Field:
Data Science (Healthcare/Food Security)
Daniel Kim recently graduated from Yale University, with a B.S. in Statistics & Data Science. During his time in college, Daniel cultivated an interest in food systems and reducing food insecurity. He also began his German studies during his senior year at Yale. He intends to merge these two passions by finding ways to access the food ecosystems of Germany to help them flourish, all the while improving his German language abilities.
Peter Philips
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Dickinson College
Professional Field:
Architectural Preservation
Peter Philips is a February 2022 graduate of Dickinson College. His interest in Japanese colonial architecture in addition to the destruction and rebuilding of Japanese urban spaces following WWII and subsequent post-war economic development led him to acquire a B.A. in Art History and a minor in Japanese. The holistic nature of Peter’s liberal arts education and his general love of language further allowed him to pursue classes in several languages beyond Japanese, including French, Portuguese, and German. During the course of the CBYX program year, Peter hopes to polish his German to a level of comfortable fluency in both professional and informal settings. This skill he expects to help him acquire an internship working in a German state-level department for historic preservation of buildings. He looks forward to investigating the intersection of Germany’s own relationship to wartime loss and memory with contemporary practices in preservation.
Katharine Critchell
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Rochester Institute of Technology
Professional Field:
Electrical Engineering
Katharine Critchell is a junior at the Rochester Institute of Technology pursuing a bachelors and masters in Electrical Engineering, with a minor in German. She is currently working for the Research Computing department at RIT. Katharine is planning on looking for a hardware-focused internship while in Germany and is looking forward to seeing how the designing and manufacturing process in Germany compares to the United States. She is also looking forward to making new friends, experiencing living in another country, and learning from all these new experiences.
Sureiny Fermin Flores
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Lehman College, CUNY
Professional Field:
Film
Sureiny Fermin Flores lives in New York City. For the past few years, she worked on various films and tv shows as part of the New York City film industry. She is excited to be part of the CBYX Program and spend the next year of my life in Germany. She hopes to improve her German as well as make valuable connections and friendships. This program gives her the opportunity to learn more about Germany and its traditions. Sureiny could not be happier to be a part of this program.
Katharine Critchell
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Rochester Institute of Technology
Professional Field:
Electrical Engineering
Katharine Critchell is a junior at the Rochester Institute of Technology pursuing a bachelors and masters in Electrical Engineering, with a minor in German. She is currently working for the Research Computing department at RIT. Katharine is planning on looking for a hardware-focused internship while in Germany and is looking forward to seeing how the designing and manufacturing process in Germany compares to the United States. She is also looking forward to making new friends, experiencing living in another country, and learning from all these new experiences.
Swathi Gadipudi
Most Recent Educational Institution:
North Carolina State University
Professional Field:
Healthcare
Swathi Gadipudi graduated from North Carolina State University in May 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and minors in Biological Sciences and Health, Medicine, and Human Values. Swathi currently works as a caregiver as well as a medical receptionist and medical scribe at a Neurology clinic before moving to Germany. During her free time, she enjoys hiking, baking, painting, and traveling. While in Germany, Swathi intends to learn about Germany’s universal healthcare system, the practice of homeopathic medicine, and other aspects of the German medical system because she aspires to be a physician.
Devin Mullins
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Appalachian State University
Professional Field:
Public Policy
Devin Mullins is a recent graduate of Appalachian State University, studying comparative political science and sustainable development. While at App State, Devin grew particularly interested in the concept, patterns, and institutions of democracy, and how those manifest differently in countries around the world. He is especially interested in how different democracies deal with the pressing challenges of our time, including climate change, democratic backsliding, and growing wealth inequality. While in Germany, Devin hopes to continue these studies in the context of both German democracy and the European Union, while also broadening his skills as a policy professional with an internship in German government. After CBYX, he hopes to attend graduate school for public policy and pursue a career on Capitol Hill.
Matthew Sorge
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Cornell University
Professional Field:
Sustainable Agriculture
Matt is a recent graduate of Cornell University with a B.S. in International Agriculture and Rural Development and a minor in biology. Originally from North Carolina, Matt is passionate about examining the development of local, just food systems. Additional course work and areas of interest include agroecology, sustainable water management, plant ecology, applied horticulture, and social enterprise. In the past, Matt has had the chance to work in STEM education outreach, documented the adoption of agro ecological practices in East Africa, and studied small and medium sized business resiliency in emerging markets. Currently working on a small vegetable farm in the Mid-West, Matt hopes to explore the intersection of agricultural policy and local food production in the EU.
Taylor Roehl
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of North Dakota
Professional Field:
Healthcare
Taylor recently graduated from the University of North Dakota with a B.S. in Forensic Science and a B.A. in German Studies, as well as an emphasis on Pre-Medicine and minors in Biology and Chemistry. She plans to apply for medical school in the months before she leaves for Germany, and she hopes to begin her medical education upon her return to the United States. While in Germany, Taylor intends to work in a medical research lab and take classes in the areas of biology and health sciences, and she is looking forward to applying everything she learns there in her future career as a physician. She also can’t wait to continue improving her knowledge of the German language while getting involved in her placement community.
Caroline Favret
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of South Carolina
Professional Field:
Public Policy
Caroline Favret is a recent graduate of the University of South Carolina where she majored in International Business and Economics with a German minor. Caroline has a passion for understanding policy, shown through her undergraduate thesis focused on carbon taxation and green energy sources, and practical experience working with both government and multinational entities. Over the next year with CBYX, she hopes to build on these experiences and immerse herself in German culture.
Lauren Gaither
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Vanderbilt University
Professional Field:
Fashion and Marketing
Lauren Gaither recently graduated from Vanderbilt University with her Master’s of Arts degree in Medicine, Health, and Society. Previously, she graduated from Vanderbilt University with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Medicine, Health, and Society with minors in German and Biological Sciences. Lauren is currently working as a social media content creator and hopes to pursue an internship in fashion and marketing while participating in the program. She has been studying German for the past decade and is excited for the opportunity to experience the culture and improve her language skills.
Sal Hargis
Most Recent Educational Institution:
The Ohio State University
Professional Field:
Industrial Engineering
Sal Hargis recently graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering with a minor in German. In Germany, he hopes to become increasingly fluent in the German language, as well as continue his Industrial Engineering education both in the classroom and while completing an internship at a German company. His goal is to continue growing as a person, and he looks forward to doing so by integrating into German culture and making lifelong memories with new friends.
Eva Schomaeker
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Cincinnati
Professional Field:
Economics and Marketing
Eva Schomaeker recently completed her second year at the University of Cincinnati. She is majoring in Business Economics, with a minor in Environmental Studies. During her time at UC, she has had the opportunity to work with two different companies as a “Co-Op” student. Most recently, she completed her second Co-Op rotation with Radius Insights, a global market research company. While working at Radius, she was able to learn and experience all aspects of market research, as well as work with a variety of clients. Eva is eager to use the skills she has learned thus far, while studying and working in Germany. She hopes to one day pursue a career in corporate sustainability, tying together both her business knowledge and passion for the environment.
Logan Cherry
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Oklahoma
Professional Field:
Communications
Logan Cherry recently graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor’s degree in communication. Within the broad study of communication, Logan has focused on political communication, media effects and media history; he has also worked on research regarding political polarization in the US. While in Germany, he is aiming to deepen his knowledge of German language and culture, and also gain an international perspective upon media and politics. After returning to the US, he plans to attend either law school or graduate school for communication.
Bradley Phelps
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Princeton University
Professional Field:
Public Policy
Brad Phelps recently received his bachelor’s degree in History from Princeton University. He taught English in Laikipia County, Kenya, over the summer of 2019 and was a legislative intern for the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure in 2020. He grew up outside Lyons, Oregon, and was Stayton High School’s 2018 valedictorian. He hopes to study public policy and work for a local or regional government in Germany.
Harry Harkins
Most Recent Educational Institution:
The State University of New York at Geneseo
Professional Field:
International Business
Harry Harkins recently worked as a banker at PNC for eight months. Before which, Harry graduated from The State University of New York at Geneseo, majoring in international business and minoring in German. He is interested in international business development and hopes to learn more about this field at a German university and then as in intern with a German business. While studying at Geneseo, Harry was very active on campus, as well as back home in the greater Pittsburgh area. He served as a captain of Geneseo’s Varsity Swimming and Diving Team, Head Tutor of the German Department, Head Presenter of the German Club, as an intern with the German-American Chamber of Commerce (Pittsburgh Chapter), as the Founding President of the Celtic League at Geneseo, and as a member of the Delta Phi Alpha and Phi Sigma Iota honor societies. Alongside his education and work, he hopes to find new ways to continue his passions for international and intercultural affairs while in Germany.
Sonya Kisak
Most Recent Educational Institution:
The Culinary Institute of America
Professional Field:
Pastry Cook and Chocolatier
Sonya Kisak currently lives in Kingston, New York and graduated in December of 2021 from The Culinary Institute of America with an Associates Degree in Baking and Pastry Arts and a Bachelors Degree in Culinary Science. She currently works for an artisan bean-to-bar chocolate company, Fruition Chocolate Works, and hopes to continue her foray into the art of chocolate. Sonya plans on working for an artisanal chocolatier in Germany and continue to improve her German language skills while doing so.
Robert Loebe
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Temple University
Professional Field:
Insurance
Robert Loebe recently graduated from Temple University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Actuarial Science and a minor in German. He currently works as an intern at Gateway Specialty Insurance, where he has gained foundational knowledge of the function of insurance in the United States. In Germany, he hopes to continue his professional education in the insurance sector of Germany and learn about risks that affect German society. He plans to further his German language skill and understanding of German-American relations during his fellowship.
Peter Martin
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Pittsburgh
Professional Field:
Sustainable Development
Peter Martin is a graduating senior with a double major in Economics (BS) and Politic & Philosophy (BA), minors in Japanese and Linguistics, and a German Language certificate. He has a keen interest for sustainable development and environmental policy and hopes to further hone his professional career towards these endeavors while in Germany. Peter is eager to immerse himself in German culture and language in the coming program year and gain new perspectives that can inform his future work.
Karina Domenech Rosario
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Haverford College
Professional Field:
Psychology
Karina Domenech is from Cataño, Puerto Rico. She graduated from Haverford College with a major in Psychology and a minor in Neuroscience. Her goal is to become a pediatric clinical psychologist, and as a CBYX fellow, she hopes to keep expanding her knowledge in Germany and gain different cultural perspectives on development and psychology to, then, bring back to her practice in Puerto Rico.
Karina Domenech es de Cataño, Puerto Rico. Se gradué de Haverford College con un bachillerato en Psicología y una especialización en Neurociencia. Su objetivo es convertirse en psicóloga clínica pediátrica y, como participante de CBYX, espera seguir ampliando sus conocimientos en Alemania y obtener diferentes perspectivas culturales sobre el desarrollo y la psicología, para luego traer de vuelta a su práctica en Puerto Rico.
Baker Garland
Most Recent Educational Institution:
College of Charleston
Professional Field:
Exercise Science/Sports Medicine
Baker Garland graduated from the College of Charleston with a B.S. in Exercise Science and a B.A. in German. Prior to leaving for Germany, she plans to work at the local gym where she has worked for three years. While in Germany, she plans to complete an internship in Exercise/Sport Science, Exercise Physiology, or Strength and Conditioning. Miss Garland hopes to build connections in Germany as a member of the 39th CBYX cohort to return and pursue a Master’s Degree in Exercise/Sports Science at a German university in the future.
Jahleel Johnson
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of South Carolina
Professional Field:
Government
Jahleel Johnson is a senior at the University of South Carolina, where he is double majoring in German and Political Science. He has been an active community leader involving himself in politics on the local, state, and national level. He completed an internship with Majority Whip James Clyburn in Washington D.C last semester, which reinforced his desire in becoming a public servant. An alumnus of the 2021 Charles B Rangel Summer Enrichment Program, Jahleel developed an interest in pursuing a career in international relations, which was spurred by the ongoing threats to democracy both domestically and abroad. As a participant of the Congress Bundestag Program, Jahleel desires to work in the German Bundestag to learn more about German politics and foreign policy. Before he departs for Germany, he will continue serving as a board member for the Umoja Village in Aiken South Carolina, an organization whose mission is to “unify undeserved populations and the entire community to bring about positive and sustainable change.” Umoja is Swahili for “unity”, which is something Jahleel wants to achieve as a public servant.
Mac Lambert
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Clemson University
Professional Field:
Automotive Engineering
James (Mac) Lambert just finished his Junior year of college at Clemson University, where he is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He intends to improve his German language skills while studying in Germany and will also pursue an internship while abroad. After graduating, he intends to work in the automotive industry.
Sophie Wieland
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Minnesota, Morris
Professional Field:
Conservation Biology
Sophie Wieland recently graduated with honors and high distinction from the University of Minnesota Morris with a B.A. in environmental studies and biology and a German studies minor. During the CBYX program year she hopes to improve her German language abilities and learn more about conservation research in Germany. After the program Sophie will attend graduate school to work in the conservation biology field.
Saylor Tettleton
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Rhodes College
Professional Field:
Education
Saylor just graduated from Rhodes College in Memphis, TN with a BA in Elementary Educational Studies. She looks forward to strengthening her German and learning more about educational systems in Germany over the next year. Saylor hopes to work with a school in Germany and bring back what she learns to teach elementary Math in the US upon her return.
Jordan Boykin
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Clark Atlanta University
Professional Field:
Public Policy
Jordan A. Boykin recently graduated from Clark Atlanta University with a B.A in Mass Media concentrating in public relations. Jordan is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. She intends to work in public policy while in the CBYX program before returning home to attend law school. Jordan plans on practicing entertainment and civil rights law in the future.
Divya Koothan
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Texas at Austin
Professional Field:
Data Science
Divya Koothan is from Houston, TX. She recently graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Management Information Systems and a minor in Government. She hopes to pursue an internship in public policy research or sustainable development. Divya looks forward to improving her German language skills, making new friends, engaging with the local German community, all while learning to be a more global citizen.
Emma Kyme
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Texas at Austin
Professional Field:
International Relations
Emma Kyme recently graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a major in International Relations and Global Studies, with a focus on International Security and certificates in Peace and Conflict Studies and German. Before her time at UT Austin, Emma participated in the Rotary Youth Exchange Program where she lived and attended a Gymnasium in Oldenburg, Germany for a year. Her initial year abroad sparked her interest in international relations and the transatlantic relationship between the US and Germany. With the CBYX program, Emma intends to intern at an international organization, diplomatic organization or government office. Her goals for the year are working on her German language skills, especially public speaking and writing.
Abigail Hawkins
Most Recent Educational Institution:
George Mason University
Professional Field:
Global Health Diplomacy
Abigail (Abby) Hawkins recently graduated from George Mason University with a B.A. in Global Affairs with concentrations in Human Security and Middle East and North Africa Studies, with a minor in Arabic. A two-time alumna of the US Department of State’s Critical Language Scholarship (CLS), Abby hopes to pursue a career in international education, improving access to study abroad opportunities for students with disabilities and chronic illnesses. While in Germany, Abby is excited not only to improve her German, but also to pursue opportunities to learn about career interests such as healthcare accessibility in Germany and the administration of public diplomacy programs like CBYX!
Ryan Brandt
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Virginia Tech
Professional Field:
Energy Industry
Ryan Brandt is a senior studying Mechanical Engineering at Virginia Tech. He will continue his internship in the commercial nuclear industry until his departure in July. He intends to pursue an internship in the nuclear or energy industry while in Germany to learn more about the energy industry on a global scale. He hopes to one day work internationally in support of cleaner energy.
Clara Coyote
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Washington
Professional Field:
Public Policy
Clara Coyote graduated from the University of Washington in 2021 with a degree in German and International Studies with a Human Rights Focus. Immediately after graduating, Clara utilized award money from the Jackson School of International Studies to engage in full-time mutual aid work serving neighbors most affected by Seattle’s affordable housing crisis. She has since dabbled in local journalism and began working as a legal assistant at a local non-profit labor law firm. In Germany she intends to pursue a local policy or social services position engaged with community members most in need. Her goal is to understand how Germans structure their government and society to ensure residents can not just survive, but thrive as individuals and within communities.
Kelly Ewing
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Willamette University
Professional Field:
Natural Resource Management
Kelly Ewing graduated from Willamette University in 2020 with a degree in Environmental and Earth Sciences. Since then, they’ve been working for the National Park Service in the DC Metro area as a Biological Science Technician, helping with everything from habitat restoration to environmental education and outreach. They are passionate about protecting natural resources, and hope to continue working for the federal government to help build a more sustainable and equitable America. They are excited to learn about natural resource management from an international perspective, in hopes of bringing these lessons back home. Kelly’s biggest dream is to one day run an organic nonprofit farm and conservation area that donates fresh produce to their local community.
Noal Leonetti
Most Recent Educational Institution:
Bowdoin College
Professional Field:
Urban Planning
Noal recently graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Bowdoin College, with majors in Environmental Studies and Government and a minor in German. He hopes to study and intern in the urban planning field while in Germany, and perfect his German language skills in the process. He intends to eventually work in municipal government as a planner.
Stephen Koch
Most Recent Educational Institution:
University of Notre Dame
Professional Field:
Mechanical Engineering
Stephen Koch recently graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering. He intends to further develop his theoretical and practical engineering knowledge while in Germany, specifically focusing on new and emerging renewable energy technologies. He hopes to apply the unique international perspective gained through the CBYX program to a future career in renewable energy engineering. Stephen is also excited to explore the outdoors of Germany in as many ways as possible. He originally comes from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he attended Whitefish Bay High School.