One of 75 German students selected to attend school in the U.S. has been spending the year attending Lurleen B. Wallace Community College.

The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Young Professional (CBYX) program has given Julia Tyszka, 22, an opportunity to further her education and experience what the city has to offer.

“I finished my major in business and economics this year, and now I am taking those classes at LBW to improve my English skills in this area,” Tyszka said. “I enjoy the life around here. I like the openness, kindliness and the helpfulness of all people around here.”

Tyszka is from Warendorf, a small town in North Rine-Westphalia, Germany, and was selected to attend LBW through the through a year long exchange program with CBYX, which is administered by Cultural Vistas.

The program was started to strengthen ties between the younger generation of the U.S. and Germany, and there are 59 colleges in 34 states participating.

“I had to apply for a scholarship with the CBYX, and the application process included several interviews, a group discussion and an education and English test,” she said. “To be elected a member, CBYX interviewed some applicants to choose the perfect one for this scholarship.”

The program requires scholarship recipients to complete an internship in their career field and a community service project during their exchange.

Gwen Kelley, an Advantage Realty broker, with whom Tyszka is living, said Tyszka worked several nights at the Covington County Kiwanis Fair, and she is required to complete 40 hours of volunteer work.

Kelley also said Tyszka has not yet chosen a place to intern, but is currently looking.

“If any Andalusia business people out there need any help, give us a call,” she said.

Tyszka said that she is very thankful for Kelley’s hospitality while she has been attending LBW.

“She’s been a pleasure to have around, just a sweet quiet little girl,” Kelley said. “I just enjoy having her at my house.

“We’ve done a lot of tours around the area, and went to Destin, Fla., to go shopping, visit the beach and eat seafood.”

Some of Tyszka’s favorite activities in Andalusia have been visiting the countryside and especially the beach, she said.

During her spare time, Tyszka said she enjoys playing tennis and horseback riding, as well as reading and visiting the cinema.