National youth exchange organization recognizes Philomath foreign-exchange student

Philomath High School foreign-exchange student Laurence Mielke has been named the April 2025 Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) German Participant of the Month, a national recognition awarded by the U.S. Department of State and the German Bundestag.

Mielke, who came to Philomath from Eckartsberga, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, is currently living with the Adam-Fuller family in Philomath and attending high school as part of the CBYX program, which promotes cultural exchange and civic engagement between the United States and Germany.

Mielke was selected for the program by ASSE, one of several nonprofit organizations that administer CBYX placements.

Having long aspired to study abroad, Mielke said he was drawn to the CBYX program’s emphasis on diplomacy and civic education. Since arriving in Oregon, he has immersed himself in American school and community life. At PHS, he has participated in theater, dance team, tennis and the Club of Culture, where he helped draft the club’s constitution and has worked on initiatives to promote cultural awareness.

Later this year, he is scheduled to present at a statewide cultural conference in Portland. 

Outside of school, Mielke volunteers in the community, including helping clean up at Oregon State University’s football stadium.

One of his most memorable moments, he said, was celebrating his birthday with his host family during a trip to Seattle.

Reflecting on his time in the United States, Mielke said the experience has helped him grow as a person and a leader.

“Before this program, I wouldn’t have considered myself a role model,” he said. “Now, I feel like I’ve been able to inspire others and try things I never thought I could.”

Mielke also noted a shift in his mindset since coming to the United States, especially in how he views failure — not as something to avoid, but as a chance to grow.

As he nears the end of his exchange year, Mielke plans to continue participating in school and community activities and spending time with the friends he’s made in Philomath. 

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