What to Expect - Orientation

We look like traffic cones. 

In Washington Dulles International Airport stands around eighty teenagers in a bright orange CIEE CBYX (Congress Bundestag Youth Exchange) shirt. We are patiently waiting for our departure from the United States to our nine month stay in Germany. 

Upon arrival at the D.C. orientation, I was pleasantly surprised with the thoroughness and preparation that goes into the beginning seminar. There are personal journals permeated with writing prompts, yearbooks showcasing smiling faces of youth ambassadors, and folders filled with tips for the upcoming year. Throughout the evening and following days, I was prepped with advice: when to expect culture shock; how to get over homesickness; what basic navigation in Germany looks like. I even received a much needed fresher on American politics, strolling through the National Mall in a tour group. 

The realization of my being abroad finally occurred to me once I reached the airport. Even with the thorough meticulous information I received the past few days, I finally felt my emotional expectations materialize into a giddy smile and sweating hands as I watched surrounding planes fly. 

More than traffic cones, the bright orange shirts of my fellow CBYX’ers represent our bright hope for a future of delicious döner, medieval castles, and unforgettable memories.