why I left germany (leaving my exchange year early)

please be respectful of my decision in the comments. thank you for sticking with me and being supportive during difficult times. I hope you enjoyed and new content coming soon :)
MORE INFO ON CBYX
usagermanyscholarship.org
exchanges.state.gov/us/progra...
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I hope you enjoyed and thanks again for watching!
- Caroline Ruby

[@LillyNature]

I feel so sorry for you. I'm from Germany and I didn't even knew they have the exchange students programm alive during this time. Even we, as german people, struggle so much with the c*rona situation. Also with mental health. And we life here, have our life here. But as a exchange student it really has to be so difficult and hard. I totally understand you. And I hope someday mabye you can come back and see Germany in another way. But the important point is, you are feeling better. I wish you all the best and lots of love.

[@khaga007]

Maybe not, too many pathological people live in Germany

[@chaddy2409]

@@khaga007 yes

[@zanderalex2463]

Absolutely correct! It is also difficult for us. Especially in the dark season it is important to have a few highlights to hold on to concerts, sports, the usually wonderful Christmas markets and the fun you have there, Christmas with the family, movies, New Year's Eve parties, ske driving in the Alps or the low mountain range. Hardly any of it can be really enjoyed at the moment, some of it is not possible at all. Then in exchange - that is already difficult!

[@ItsameAlex]

9:23 - Did her host mother call her fat? and say that she's messy and untidy?

[@chaddy2409]

@@ItsameAlex she didnt say that from what i see

[@Sarahr98998]

There should be a fluency program the year before the exchange where you’re required to learn the language. They should anticipate that students who don’t know the language AT ALL will struggle with schoolwork, friendships, isolation.... and therefore, mental health.

[@ulisirius9027]

Listening is important. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iYundoBqiteirs0 m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXjSqIevit-Bepo m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/e2PRm5Z9nbh0htE m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/roGnqYNodrisapY m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqeZhZttoK9parM

[@ulisirius9027]

There are very good teachers. kzbin.info/www/bejne/n53PcqOdlrGafaM

[@johnsoapmactavish9921]

If you can't adapt to the fast pace learning environment that the program intends, then you're not fit for the program. Simple as that. Don't join the program if you're not ready. The program should not lower its standards from what is expected from American ambassadors to succeeed in the program and any future careers where you're gonna have to adapt an unknown environment.

[@tommi7904]

Or maybe you should know what you're getting yourself into and not even considering it without any language experience. I'm going into germany later this year and i've been studying since I was 10. They don't even let you go if you haven't been learning for at least 2 years beforehand.

[@ulisirius9027]

Confirmed. India has just bought oil from Russia-- at a discount (!) AND in rupees-roubles. This is the real story that you won't hear on the news.

[@taraemilia]

I did an exchange year in the US this year and left home back to germany early- exactly for these reasons too!

[@Sophia-rk8qc]

Im still here but I feel the same lol I won’t leave bc my parents paid a lot

[@paulabremus6542]

@@Sophia-rk8qc can 100% relate

[@chukwuebukaokafor1015]

Does you country need large quantity of Garcinia Kola???? am exporting 500kg at the rate of $16 pay kg, what do you think???

[@Vaniamoreira222]

@@Sophia-rk8qc It's true, the exchange program is very expensive. When our parents don't have much money and they make sacrifices for their children to study abroad we need to stay strong. 💪

[@Sophia-rk8qc]

@@Vaniamoreira222 that’s so true

[@kendeas5079]

I believe you made the right decision. Appreciate your honesty. Don’t ever give up the hope of returning one day! Try to keep up your German language skills too. The German language and culture changed my life. Had I not kept up my German in Highschool and college I would never have met my German wife Whom my soul loves so dearly. You never know where a second language will take you. Now I enjoy teaching German online and want to share this language and culture with as many people as I can. Great video , and May God bless your recovery and transition!

[@whiteapple4737]

Wish you and your wife alle the best :)

[@kendeas5079]

@@whiteapple4737 Dankeschön! I appreciate that!

[@jbcumming]

I had a friend from my college German class who married a German. When he met her family, he made the mistake of using Du prematurely and they were not happy. Thereafter, he refused to ever use anything other than "Sie." Perhaps, that's how "Thee, Thine, and Thou" left the English language. Later, a German protege of mine introduced his fiancee to me and I made the mistake of slipping in a "Sie" at one point. The poor girl thought I disapproved of her. I felt so badly. Now they're long married and she's a wonderful wife to her husband.

[@74valeska]

right...🙂

[@lernenderzukunft]

Mental health is totally important Have you been able to completely stop the eating disorder? Wishing you all the best 💓

[@ItsameAlex]

9:23 - Did your host mother say you were eating too much junk food, and that you're untidy?

[@graptemysnigrinoda738]

She obviously didn't mention anything like that. Why do you spread lies? To make her look bad in public? You better find yourself another hobby and a job.

[@iasciateognisperanza3267]

Please, I beg you, dont use the term : “Mental Health” for mundane things like over eating, nostalgia, melancholy. We all experience those daily challenges. Mental Health is a more profound concept, more permanent and needs to be treated: Panic Attacks, Obsession, Total depression, Voices, Paranoia.schizophrenia and many others. Overseas, if you tell people that you have a mental health problem they associate it with craziness or lunacy. Just say, I feel lonely. I’m homesick. I miss my xxxxxx.

[@iceprincess3981]

it's funny that the German exchange students in the US talk about almost exactly the same problems, only often under the opposite sign. They gain weight because of fast food and miss the healthy food in Germany. They can never get anywhere on their own because there is no public transportation or bike paths, often not even sidewalks. The dependence on cars is a problem for many environmentally conscious young people. It's a shame that you didn't have the opportunity to really experience the lives of German youth through Corona. I'm sure your judgment would have been more positive without pandemic-related restrictions. The fact that not all of your life takes place at school has its advantages. Anyway, enjoy being back home and make sure the scars heal. That's what really counts

[@ItsameAlex]

9:23 - Did her host mother say she was eating too much junk food, and that she's untidy?

[@ItsameAlex]

'' environmentally conscious young people'' when China is creating so much pollution in the world.... it's sad

[@tomhaswell6283]

@@ItsameAlex Where the hell is this coming from?

[@swissy5608]

@@ItsameAlex Yeah, and it travels, too. People don’t realize that, but the scientists do. The entire US coast is tainted daily with pollution that blows over from China. When it hits landfall, all that crazy toxic pollution gets into the food, too.

[@ulisirius9027]

It can be. Mostly in States ruled by liberals. Liberalism is a mental disorder.

[@RDRussell2]

My dad was in the US Army and we were stationed in Germany in the mid-1970s. (Worms, Germany, if you know the country's geography.) I was 7, 8, 9 years old, living there for three years. Very young, but I grew to love Germany. I played soccer there and played it all the rest of my life (thus far!). I miss the country, the countryside, its castles, its cathedrals. its festivals, its music, its history, and I long to go back some day. This is what drew me to your channel in the first place: your channel allowed me to enjoy being in that country "again" through your own, new-to-Germany viewpoint. Aside from that, I didn't think you and I had anything in common. But you share here that you moved around so very many times growing up, and I hadn't realized that I had that in common with you when I started watching. (Moving around so often at a young age isn't easy on everyone.) Let me say you are very brave in so many ways, not least of all to step forward and share this personal experience of yours, which has obviously been troubling. If I may offer some unsolicited advice, you say in this video there are some personal matters involved in your decisions that you don't want to get into...may I suggest you should respect this boundary you've set for yourself. And anyone here following you should respect this boundary as well. You've been very giving of yourself, your time, and your experiences. But that doesn't mean you don't owe us anything, especially after you've released this video of explanation. Stay positive, hang in there, and be your beautiful self. Take your time. Good luck.

[@SE-HH]

It`s a bit off topic for the video, but I have to comment anyway. I, a German, was born and raised in Worms, and at that time I must have been around 12-14 years old. I must say, you or your parents did exceptional, as far as I remember, not many Americans at that time left their area except for some shopping or dining. If you played soccer in a German club, you definitely were an exception. I played it all my youth and can´t remember that a team ever had a "soldier kid" playing with them. The only area where it mixed were some music bands later. But I remember that on Backfischfest and other occasions we were always scared about the American army police 😀. The presence in Worms was stopped end of the 90s, the area of the Taukkunen Barracks has become an area with a hotel and some businesses, the Jefferson Village has been turned into a living area where most of the buildings have been replaced, some renovated.

[@maylinde986]

Oh, two now! My dad was stationed by Heidelberg and we lived in PHV.. also in the 70'...maybe there is... But..this Covid time..I wish you can make it back after that...and experience the Sunny Side of the country!

[@chukwuebukaokafor1015]

Does you country need large quantity of Garcinia Kola???? am exporting 500kg at the rate of $16 pay kg, what do you think???

[@74valeska]

thanks for your lovely words about G.! ;-)

[@jasminteabag]

I spent 5 years in Germany, and came back to Korea with very similar reasons. I speak German fluently, but still I suffered from depression. Thanks for sharing your experience. Wish you stay healthy!

[@carlosvg2286]

When i went abroad for studies, i knew there were going to be some cultural shocks, but i underestimated the overall impact they were going to have in my life. I felt everything you said

[@junehulbert2337]

I’m so glad you are home with your family and are taking care of yourself. You are not unsuccessful at all. You thought out everything very well in making your decision. I wish you all the best. You are a very sweet, intelligent young lady. Sending you love and healing. 💕💕💕

[@frenchfan3368]

Caroline, you did nothing wrong by coming back early to the U. S. It sounds like you had quite a few challenges but you also had some cool adventures as well while you were in Germany. Think about the good times that you did have while you were over there and what you did learn. You have learned many life lessons in such a short amount of time that many adults have not even confronted. You served yourself and your country well young lady, and you are ready to continue your life in a new year. with your friends and family. Stay strong and positive! We need more risk takers like yourself willing to get out of their comfort zone.

[@jameslewis9393]

So wonderful that you shared such a personal experience and introspection wth the rest of the world. Thank you! From all of this, please be happy and content. You will now go forward in life happier, more confident and productive. Wishing you all the best. You've got the right stuff!

[@anisaromano5352]

Caroline, it sounds like some of the scaffolding that should have existed for you, didn't. You should've had to take German language lessons for a year and reached some level of fluency before going there - because the language barrier really contributed to your isolation and inability to succeed at school. The CYBX program should have therapists on standby for kids so they can just call or text and be like "I need a therapist to talk through some food issues" and they can connect you with them. And the German host family should have been told (I don't know if you're the first kid they've hosted) that they may need to pull the kids out of their bedroom and engage with the family - playing board games, watching movies (with subtitles), going for bike rides together, whatever. If you'd had ALL that support, it would have been a very different experience for you. I am VERY hard on people, and generally feel most people coddle themselves too much. But nothing is more valuable than your mental health. For you to have stopped an eating disorder before it got completely out of control is HUGE. For you to have felt unstable and figured out what you needed to get stable is HUGE. Being able to advocate for yourself as a teenage girl is HARD and you did it. So be proud of yourself. You can go back to Germany later, under different circumstances, and I guarantee you'll have a great experience.

[@elliebellie7816]

The exchange program is NOT a babysitter. It's very passive to sit in your room crying because the host family isn't engaging you (supposedly) but is it ALL on them? No. As far as I know, there was nothing stopping her from stepping out of her room to engage with THEM. And there are plenty of online translation programs and most likely many English-speaking people in Germany that could have been helpful in navigating the language difficulties if she had sought them out. This was a poor fit for both her and for the program and it's a good thing she left and came home. Hopefully something learned there by all involved.

[@lianevoelker9845]

Yes, I think that sounds a bit unfair. We don't know what happened and how the host family tried to solve those issues. Maybe they did everything they could.

[@chukwuebukaokafor1015]

Does you country need large quantity of Garcinia Kola???? am exporting 500kg at the rate of $16 pay kg, what do you think???

[@jbcumming]

@@elliebellie7816 Why are you so cruel? Have you been in that situation or are you just an Übermensch_

[@jbcumming]

@@lianevoelker9845 and why are you piling on judgmentally just to be mean. No one's blaming the host family.

[@rangertommy]

Well done! You saw your needs, and you took action for yourself. The exact opposite of "failure." I wish you the best!

[@MattisBLN]

Hello Caroline, thank you so much for sharing your very personal thoughts! You can be very proud of yourself for making that decision. You did nothing wrong and don‘t have to feel guilty in any way for quitting the program! It’s sad to hear that you weren’t able to built a routine, but this time with covid doesn’t make things easier. So I wish you all the best, get well soon. Don’t look back in grief, be proud that you realized what’s best for you and that you followed your heart, even if this way wasn’t the easiest way as well! And maybe some day you will come back to Germany with your family and enjoy the country as is. Thanks again for being so open and honest and for sharing your experiences!

[@sophieulrych8019]

You know what, good for you girl. I have never studied abroad so although I can’t relate, I can very heavily sympathize with the struggle and tough decision and you should be proud for recognizing something is wrong and deciding to focus on yourself. Keep your head held high and I wish you a safe recovery.

[@mari.libiii]

I am a cbyx student in the usa myself and I can really relate with your problems and I totally get them. Please don’t feel bad for quitting! You can be really really proud that you did a part of it. While I was watching your videos I thought many times that being an exchange student in Germany is way harder than being one in the usa, one reason is simply the German language. The situation with covid in Germany is so unfortunate too, if I did not have my school-sports here I wouldn’t know what to do either. I hope you feel better soon and I am excited to see what great things you will do in the future

[@starseed8087]

I don't want to say anything, I know what is meant. But it has annoyed me for a long time already that (it is always) Germans have to keep telling the whole world how difficult it is to learn the German language. Because it's not true. German is in the difficulty category rank 2 out of 5 ! It takes an average of 750 hours to speak German fluently, French and Italian, and Spanish an average of 600 hours (category 1). For Russian (Category 4) 1100 hours and for Chinese, Japanese and Arabic 2200 hours (Category 5). I personally know someone who took exactly 1 year in Germany to speak absolutely fluent German having only 3 hours of language school a week.

[@elliebellie7816]

Many many Germans speak almost perfect English. They teach it early on in school and follow through to the higher grades. You should know this better than anyone if you are German. I am extremely language-challenged but when I moved to Germany as a young bride it did not take long to pick up some very basic German and frequently all I had to do was ask if anyone spoke English and many Germans stepped in to assist.

[@jbcumming]

American education abuses children by not starting foreign language instruction until after their brains are formed making it difficult for them to learn the language, much less ever feel fully comfortable with it even after mastery. We need to reform American education to make early language instruction the norm as some schools do now with Spanish. That's not to say that German schools are totally better. American public schools require that teachers have studied education to be certificated; German public schools require that teachers have studied Pädagogik, which means that many Germans learn to speak English with a German accent like the accent of their teachers. One reason that universities excel is because they emphasize subject mastery over education theory. No one can teach what they haven't learned.

[@maxijoos927]

Wow wirklich mutig, dass du alles so ehrlich und detailliert erzählst. Die Lockdowns waren selbst für uns deutsche Schüler und Studenten sehr schwierig. Man kann sich nicht vorstellen, wie hart diese Situation als Austauschschüler gewesen sein muss. Ich hoffe, es geht dir wieder besser und du konntest trotz der frühen Abreise viel für dein Leben lernen und einige Erfahrungen sammeln. Sehr toll, dass du vorhast weiterhin die deutsche Sprache zu lernen, deswegen schreibe ich diesen Kommentar auch auf deutsch. Es ist toll viele Sprachen sprechen zu können und im Urlaub sich mit den Leuten unterhalten zu können. Ich wünsche dir alles Gute und Gottes Segen!

[@glennpuckeridge6244]

Thank you so much Caroline for being so open and honest about your experiences. It takes great bravery to do that. I love your channel and your intelligent and thoughtful comments on your experiences. With everything piling up against you you made the only choice you could by prioritising your mental health. You channel has showcased your many qualities. I know you will find your way out of this and grow from it. Best wishes to you.

[@JannekeW1996]

Hey Caroline, thank you so much for making this video. It is so relatable to me. This is exactly how I've been feeling for the past 12 months, living in Berlin. This insane loneliness, and losing who you are at home (Holland for me) is very tough. I admire your mature reflection on these events and having the courage to leave. I haven't yet -- and trust me, it does not get better. Enjoy your time back at home! You are super courageous.

[@udrichie]

I spent a year in the US when I was 17 and recall many of the feelings you mentioned. I had a really good host family though and the language was not such a big challenge as I had studied English since third grade, but I can imagine how tough it must have been sitting in class all day and not understanding what the teachers and fellow students were saying. You shouldn't have any regrets, I mean you still spent many months in another country and you got a chance to experience another culture first hand, something you will remember and talk about for the rest of your life. Take care and all the best!

[@sophieemma7937]

I went to canada 19/20 so the year covid came around. I had mental struggles especially during winter time and I was thinking about going home almost everyday. Fortunately I „recovered“ because I didn’t want to be seen as someone who‘d quit. Then covid got more important, my host family and I canceled our travelplans and in the end I had to go home. I really understand you and the problems you‘ve had and thank you so much for sharing. I bet it is not hard at all to talk about how your mental health suffered while being in Germany. You also mentioned mental health in Germany and how people deal with it. It is very hard to see a therapist and it is a thing our government has to look at!! I wish you all the best and a great recovery and I hope you get to the point where you see this exchange as a great chance and challenge which has brought many struggles but also experiences. Lots of love

[@paulien4939]

I hope you feel better soon ❤️ I just have to say that you are so brave for making this decision and speaking so openly about it. It’s not quitting, it’s making the right choice for you! And I can imagine how hard the exchange was. As a 17 year old I went to Australia. The language was a bit challenging at first but was fine. But the mental health, dependency on others for transport, host family struggles and disordered eating are all things I recognise. You are brave and not alone! I hope you can look back on this experience later on in life and see what it brought you 😊

[@arrrriba]

It definitely sounds like you made the right decision. Disordered eating and feeling depressed might not go away right away, even though you are back now, so I'm really glad that you decided to get professional help. Those sound like really serious problems.

[@rominef]

Hey Caroline - I started watching your channel because I was curious how someone from a different culture would fare in Germany, and while I did enjoy the many things you shared about your experience in that regard, I am now following your channel because of you as a person. I wish I had been half as reflective and smart as you are when I was your age. You should be really proud of yourself, and it seems like you did absolutely the right thing in coming back to your home country. Don't ever let anyone make you feel like you failed. You didn't fail, you grew as a person in a way that most adults never do. That is way more important than finishing some program you committed to. I can't wait to see what you do next and am sure that you have a happy healthy life ahead of you! I hope you are feeling better very soon!

[@zeala222]

Im finding myself in the same situation atm and Im very grateful that you are sharing your experience with us, because this is helping me a lot right now !

[@youssefelmasry95]

Glad you made what’s best for you. I saw your other video first and just saw this one. Exchange experience can vary and I’m sure you still gained a lot and wish you all the best in your new adventures ❤️

[@howierfs5471]

G'day Caroline, nice to see you again and this time with much more brighter eyes and a happy face. Dont judge yourself about your decision, which was totally right to do so and dont allow others to judge your decision which are important for your life. Well this covid and I am convinced the amount of 7 moves you had to do, brought you out of balance and a stable environment you need to live enjoying your life. I am sure without these, even facing a new language and new culture, you would have managed it. As mentioned once before, you did a tough decision when you decided to be on exchange for a year in such a young age. Be assure with the decision going back you did right, very well done, and first of all you have to think to your own health, doesnt matter what other people would think. I hope you will recover soon !!! Crossing my fingers for your next goals continuing to learn german and may be in future you will come back to Germany just for longer vacation and travelling to lots of parts in Germany which are different and nice for most of americans. The youtuber Montana Showalter also has made her exoeriences. I think you do mind exchanges and information with all other exchangers anyway. I wish you all the best for 2022. Btw, making such statements in public it shows to me you are a strong girl. Dont consider the time here as a lost time in your life, no way, you did experiences good and even bad which makes you even stronger for your future. Dont look back in a negative way, take the experiences for a better future.

[@MrSparklespring]

Hello Caroline : I completely understand your decision and it is a good thing that you stood up for yourself and your mental health. Don't see it as a failure, sometimes circumstances press us to make new decisions and then it's good to just 'go with the flow'. Wishing you succes. Greetings from Belgium!

[@emiw5033]

you made the right decision! i became interested in your videos as i am learning german and part german, and i have loved your german videos, but i can't wait to see what other videos you create! i am glad you are able to be home again somewhere comfortable to recover. it is truly inspiring the challenges you endured, even though you were uncomfortable at times and may wish things had gone a different way. you have challenged and learnt new things about yourself so we are all proud of you! can't wait to see future content you may give us, wishing you the best

[@jlscielo]

I enjoyed your exchange videos. I did an exchange in college. I can very much relate to your story and understand you had much more going on there with the pandemic and language. Much respect for your very mature decision and the break you took before posting. Such a bright future ahead of you! You got this!

[@user-bl5qs2ri9w]

Thank you for sharing this and being so honest! You are so brave and strong, you care of yourself, this is one of the most important things in life! You will get through this, wish you love and all the best!

[@nataliewilkins52]

You are amazing 💕 I really appreciate that you are sharing your experiences. Ive felt a lot of the same things and its so hard. Im so glad that you made the decision best for you and are getting better!!

[@Kate-df4em]

I am proud of you for prioritising your mental health and being strong enough to advocate for yourself in that difficult situation. That's huge and no one can take away that strength.

[@adriennemccue-SUFMH]

Thank you for sharing your experience. It's important to understand your feelings. I had a visa in Japan for 3 years, and due to an issue, I went back home in 2.5 years. I completed my stay there, but I didn't renew it. So, you do what you must, especially for your mental health. I was in Japan for about 1-3 years, but now, I look back and am glad I did it. Trying to be somewhere with a new language and culture isn't easy. It happens to many from 3-6 months. So expected that it's hard to be connected. I'm sorry you had an issue with food and mental health. It's great that you understood what was happening and got the support (Your family), and realized you needed to be home.

[@garyperkovac1002]

Caroline, you are great for simply following what you, yourself want and need. Germany was a bold adventure. You should have no regrets coming home when you did. Nothing to blame. Nobody is wrong. As wonderful being over there was, life simply was not working out for you... given all that you described. I lived in Europe for many years, including in Germany. When it became clear it was time to leave, I simply left. It actually took a little time for me to get settled back here. But that was part of the whole adventure. No regrets. I'm glad I went. I'm glad I came back.

[@laurianal6507]

I am an exchange student in the United States from Germany right now and I know exactly what you mean. Being an exchange student is not always fun. Being away from home for such a long time and being so young is not easy at all. Sometimes I just want the time to pass quickly so I can be back home in my usual routine. I hope you still like Germany and although you went home, you are so brave for making an exchange year. This experience was hard but hopefully you still enjoyed a few moments and learned something from it for your life. Enjoy your time back home!

[@angelaarredondo4115]

Glad that you paid attention to how you were doing and analyzed your situation the way that you did. Good for you! I'm sure that your parents are happy that you did! Great plan for your near future! Wishing the Best for you!

[@carolineruby]

thank you! that’s so kind❤️ I appreciate it!

[@charlotteanna]

you did the right thing. you are 16 and you took care of you. in a foreign country! others are suffering for years and don't make a decision. you did!! I wish you all the best and hope one fine day you will come back and visit germany. there are two things I am mad about: my fellow german teachers. it's a gymnasium thing (I'm in elementary). they just care for your school performance and they don't help you. how should someone without language skills succeed in a written test? they should have had ideas and help you. the second thing is: the host family has to be aware that they ARE mum and dad for you while you are here. those exchange students are really young and in a foreign country. sitting alone in your room, there is no excuse, they should have done sth. for you. good luck, have a good 2022.

[@11moonshot]

As a teacher myself I could not agree more!! I was pretty fed up about some colleagues too: Not too few had a strong German accent and did NOT care about their own personal improvement subject-wise... Mike (Cannot other say than feeling ashamed by this!)

[@jbcumming]

Very insightful. Once I was a guest in a German English classroom, and a student (of course, German English teachers like to call high school students "pupils", but then what do they know? :) Anyway, the student asked if the German Abitur is enough to get into an American college. I responded that Americans have never heard of the Abitur and could care less. Wow, that was a mistake to say. The English teacher immediately went into German to declare, "Die Abitur ist sehr wichtig, usw." What do you think about the Abitur and the Numerus Clausus system for German university admissions?

[@AlexisaurusRawrr]

Girl I totally feel for you! I studied abroad for 6 months in college & even though it was years before COVID, your points about being lonely were exactly how I was feeling the entire time! & I also had struggles with my host family (just a single, middle aged woman). She didn’t make me feel welcome & one night right before dinner she called me out for not having any friends & not going out to do things, which was quite traumatic because I was already feeling super isolated & was fully aware of not having any friends there. I didn’t need her to rub it in. You absolutely made the right choice! Germany will always be there (more than likely). You can always go back when COVID dies down & do things on your own terms.💕 I’m wishing you the best in your recovery!

[@coolasteelvis4914]

I am on a exchange year in Canada this year, I am from Sweden. I know and I can relate to what you feel. I have almost the same. But everything is still hard but after I change host family everything is going fine. I understand why you did leave, I think it is so good that you made that difficult decision for yourself. You are strong girl, it is not easy to study abroad. It is just us people with this exchange student experience that can really relate and really understand. Hope you getting better!❤️

[@pfalzgraf7527]

Sounds like a whole bunch of things went wrong for you! I am sorry you had to go through this sort of thing - seems like more than a few things in your exchange went completely awry. I hope you will at some point still be able to come back and have some more successful visit in this country! Take care, recover and stay - no, become strong!

[@suehorn4182]

Good for you. You are one smart young woman. You saw things were not right and you evaluated your circumstances and made a decision to return home. Give yourself some GRACE. After all, who knows you best? You do. Best wishes and stay strong.

[@ItsameAlex]

9:23 - Did her host mother say she was eating too much junk food, and that she's untidy?

[@suehorn4182]

@@ItsameAlex no indication of such. What a horrible comment to post.

[@ItsameAlex]

@@suehorn4182 She insinuated/implied it. I think she even said it directly whether it was this video or another video.

[@ItsameAlex]

@@suehorn4182 Also, what's horrible about it? Even if the host mother said that, it might be bad but not horrible.

[@marleenhefler8839]

I loved watching your videos, you are such a kind person. I can totally understand why you left germany and I think it was the right decision for you after listening to your reasons. Mental health is not taken seriously enough here in germany which is really sad. I know how difficult it is to find a therapist,especially during covid.. many of my friends are currently dealing with mental problems.. I think that our school system has a great impact on that. I am going to do my Abitur in like 3 to 4 months and that is such a stress. I don't know how to get everything done the upcoming months.. so it was totally right that you decided to quit and I think you still had great experiences and you will never forget these months in germany. I also like that you keep on studying german, I would love to see some updates :) and to say sth about covid here..it just sucks so much, I want it back to normal, it's impacting our mental health and I really hope the situation will be better in summer and that we can finally have a new normal daily life. Good luck with your recovery, I'm sure you are doing great and will be better soon. Viele Grüße aus Deutschland🥰

[@oxertz5004]

I remember watching your video before even finishing my application to CBYX, and now as a CBYX "finalist" currently in Germany, I relate to literally everything you've said and I'm so conflicted... I plan on staying until January before deciding to go home at the least. My heart goes out to you, and I know making that decision is not easy, especially you're in contact with other CBYXers. I hope you're better now and that you know you're not alone in your experience

[@maelphes2618]

Thank you for sharing your most personal experiences. It sounds like you made the right choice in that situation, and a difficult one it was, no doubt about that. As a German I regret your exchange ended like that. The circumstances were far from ideal, I suppose. What you said about getting psychotherapy here is sadly true - specialist appointments are not easily obtained. There have always been waiting lists even before the pandemic, but I hear it's been even worse since then. In any case I really hope you recovered quickly from this and don't regard it as a failure. I also hope that you hold on to all the positive experiences you made and won't let the way it ended trouble you. May your next visit to Europe be under better circumstances. 🙏 Again thanks for sharing!

[@Mayagick]

No worries Caroline Ruby, you are better of now, so it seems the right decision for the moment. There's no place like home. Don't let it nag on you too much. I recall a conversation with the neighbors little boy, he worried so much for his current challenge and I reminded him he mastered how to ride a bicycle, he thought he could never learn it but of course he did. So it's: "hinfallen, aufstehen, Krone richten und weiter" (fall down, get up, straighten crown and continue). Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards. Soren Kierkegaard

[@michaeleisenberg5515]

Sorry to hear that things didn’t workout entirely well in Germany for you. As a CBYX student in Germany right now, i’ve already had to change once, seen many others in the program change, and witnessed a person from my Berlitz language group already go back. It’s so difficult being an exchange student, and i’ve honestly felt depressed at times. You made the right decision, and you should be proud that you progressed so much in regards to your German skills in such a little amount of time. I hope you recover well and if you’re able to, please visit Germany again in the future! Ashley, Kadon, and me (esp since i haven’t gotten to meet you yet in person) would be happy to see you again!

[@carolineruby]

Happy to say that I’ll be visiting in March with my family :) I’ll be in the Frankfurt area so I’ll definitely make time to plan something with y’all! I’d love to hang out!!!

[@alinetheresia2867]

This! I am from Germany and went abroad almost 6 years ago. My destination was Japan and I had luckily studied Japanese before I left. Nevertheless I struggled with school, friends and isolation. My mental health was at an all time low and I returned to Germany earlier than anticipated. What I was left with was an eating disorder, felling of guilt and a crippling self esteem. None of that was the fault of the country I went to but due circumstance. You are so brave for making your trip out here in the first place and then also looking after yourself in retuning home. I felt ashamed and as if I had failed myself and everyone else when k returned early but came to the conclusion that I had failed myself in not looking after myself earlier. I highly respect you for your braveness, honesty and maturity. If you ever do return to Germany I hope we can make your trip as pleasant as possible and heal some of the wounds that need closure. I started being able to talk about my experience living in Japan only after I went on vacation there a few months later and found myself in love with the country again. You are incredible for what you have achieved and know that those experiences you have made a shared amongst exchange students from all countries wherever they go! You are not alone in this :)

[@torigotthilf3207]

As a German citizen who moved to US many years ago to attend university, I can attest to the cultural , educational and socialization differences between the to countries. I found school so much easier and people friendlier, but somewhat intrusive. I however adjusted. Your mental health is very important, hopefully you are doing better and have your eating disorder under control. Good luck to you in life!

[@alejandrolopezhernandez5432]

Ich denke, deine Entscheidung war richtig. Überleben ist das wichtigste. Den Rest kannst du später erreichen oder auch nicht. Wir leben im Moment komische Sachen. Covid ist nicht zu verharmlosen. Alles Gute und vielleicht, wenn du noch Bock auf diese Gesellschaft hast, kannst du uns wieder Gesellschaft leisten :-) :-) :-)

[@nigelreilly5029]

Hi Caroline, Guten Tag, You obviously made the right decision. Nothing is wasted. Your experience in a foreign country will always be with you, and may well prepare you for any other future difficult period in your life that everyone at some time or other has to cope with. You come across as convident and articulate. You are a great gal ! God bless you ! From Nigel in England (I am a 77 year old grandad).

[@2gnospam]

Sorry to hear about your issues. Continue to strive moving forward. You will overcome your situation there. In the grand scheme of things, this will eventually seem like a bump in the road. You have a long and glorious life ahead of you. Go get it.

[@homosapien.a6364]

Good for you Caroline, putting you mental health in front of everything is very important. And this is YOUR life, no one has the right to tell you what you don't want to do. Viel Glück💞✊

[@bastianogr4960]

You seem like a strong, intelligent, focussed, and very self-reflecting person, who usually pulls through. So one can only imagine, how hard it must have been for you to make this decision. People often judge others for-what they think-is giving up. But you didn't give up, you didn't quit, you didn't disappoint. You made a mature decision and took a big, difficult step in an unexpected direction. You corrected your course. That takes a lot of courage and prudence. Pulling through is admirable. But pulling through for the wrong reasons does no-one any good. That way, you're just wasting time and potential, which is never a smart thing to do. Also, if you're facing mental health issues, and you have other options, get away from Germany as far as you can. You had the right intuition. As a German living in Germany, struggling with mental health issues for many years, I can only confirm, that you're pretty much on your own here. The standards are horrifically low, and the infrastructure is basically non-existent. So, you definitely did the right thing. I hope you'll feel better soon. All the best for you! And thanks a lot for sharing your experience.

[@carolineruby]

Thank you so much for this amazing and supportive comment! You don’t know how much it means to me. I really appreciate you taking the time to watch this video and support me through your kind words🫶🏼 I hope you have an amazing day!

[@albertoprb1]

Dealing with a totally different environment is difficult at any time. I'm surprised you had the strength to even start this exchange at this time. You'll feel better, and I bet this made you even stronger. You can always try different experiences in the future. More often than not, life is longer than it seems, no rush.

[@Rosa-jl5ym]

I can relate to you so much! I was on exchange too and had very similar experiences with covid and mental health struggels. Especially the guilt I felt after quitting the exchange I felt extremely lost and insecure with my decission. But after recieving the help I needed I´m feeling so much better now! Wishing you all the best

[@marcop4136]

You tried something hard in a time that makes it even more challenging than it already was and you added a lot of new challenges to your life. Never underestimate the good things you can learn even after bad experience. A thing i really want to highlight: talking about the struggles and mental health. So many struggles can be overcome by talking with friends and family. Sadly in Germany parents misinterpret this as complaining and won't see the mental struggles caused by ignoring the problem. Your video makes me very confident that you are on the right way to accomplish way more in life and gives me hope that this young generation is able to overcome this hard times and take the experience to build strength for future tasks. Blessings and greetings from germany

[@BlackAdder665]

Good points but, please, don't generalise German parents. No such thing as THE German parent who is always indifferent or uncomprehending towards their children's problems. There are also HUGE regional differences, differences between social classes etc. etc.

[@marcop4136]

@@BlackAdder665 stimmt. Ich arbeite leider an einem dieser "Brennpunkt". Da verliert man schnell den Blick für positiv Beispiele

[@BlackAdder665]

@@marcop4136 Jupp, das Sein bestimmt das Bewusstsein, nicht wahr? Ich kenne das. Nicht von der Arbeit, aber von einer meiner Wohngegenden. Es macht einen Unterschied in Bezug darauf, wie man die Menschheit wahrnimmt, ob man morgens aus dem Fenster schaut und sieht einen Betrunkenen an die Laterne pinkeln oder eine Mutter ihr Kind anschreien oder man sieht einen Jogger auf dem Weg zum Park oder auf dem Rückweg mit einem Belohnungscroissant in der Hand.

it was the right decision!! please feel virtually hugged! you can be so proud that you were brave enough to take this exchange year, and I think it's even more brave to talk about why you quit. thank you for your honesty!

[@Carla369]

Sorry to hear your story. I am in Germany now and I can imagine your life at that moment. Thank you for sharing your story

[@karinland8533]

I turned 18 during my 12 month exchange and back then I thought 16 is to young to do a whole year of exchange, and I still think it is to young. And with no knowledge of the language what though ever I think is a really, really bad idea. Good you took care of you mental health and went back home. Be proud of what you have achieved, it is much more then all the people who never tryed!

[@jbcumming]

Look for my comment in which I describe what it was like to be 18 in Germany in 1955.

[@ErincatherineN]

Girl we feel you and are here for you. We totally understand you.

[@Vanessa-fr1ho]

Wow, I am so sorry to hear that. And I totally can relate to your problems. I used to spend a year in Canada. I loved it, but had similar feelings. And I was 20! Spending a long time abroad at a young age is definitely a challenge. You can be so proud that you have tried it! For me this is not a quitting or failing, this is only an experience which will make you stronger! I wish you all the best and take all the time you and your Body need to recover.

[@Mia-oj1wy]

As a german myself, I can confirm how mental health isn't a serious enough topic here. It's quite the irony though, at least in my school and classes we talked a lot about the seriousness of mental health and how it could affect/affects people, but almost none of the teachers actually recognized students with mental health issues. The last two years of my Abitur I was in such a bad place, it's really shocking to me now, that I have recovered at least a little bit. But there was really no one that you could go to talk to, to get help. Our psychiatrists are all booked out, you rarely get the chance of help in time. It's definitely something germany has to work on a lot more.

[@natascha5864]

@Mia ; Well, the simple fact, that allpsychiatrists are booked out in Germany and that it is so hard to get help when you need it, is actually selfexplainatory, isn´t it...? So, yeah, many people in Germany do have a problem...

[@glockenrein]

It seriously isn’t a teacher’s job to recognise or treat your mental state. Their job is to teach you maths. The rest is your parents’ job.

[@12XFactor]

I'm so sorry to hear that you had these problems and hope, that it's getting better and normal again.

[@lowesmanager8193]

Hello Caroline, I'm new to your channel, but as a fellow American who is currently still abroad through another program, I wanted to say that I totally understand your struggles and that you shouldn't feel bad in the slightest for your decision. I myself am in Austria rather than Germany, but I've still had to deal with essentially the same issues. I've only been here since September and I am committed to staying until June as I originally plan for a few reasons. 1. I've never been too interested in team sports, so I'm not missing out on that like you have been 2. Hiking is one of my favorite outdoor activities, and here in Austria, I'm actually having a lot more fun because of all of the gorgeous mountains 3. Covid is obviously still very present in America, so going home won't help with restrictions 4. I met an awesome girl in Vienna and we've been dating since early Obtober, which has both been incredibly fun and has helped me a lot with loneliness Number 4 has easily had the biggest impact on me, during my first month here I definitely felt more alone and I didn't feel like there was much that I could do on the weekends, and it doesn't help that making regular freinds is hard for me in the town that I'm living in. Anyways, I just wanted to share a little bit about what's helped me and to again emphasize how much I understand your struggles and respect your decision. Liebe Grüße aus Österreich.

[@jbcumming]

Number 4 is the key. My relationship with Mechthild, who took me under her wing and helped me to take what I thought was adequate German to the next higher level which was what I needed. Then, when I came home, I was blessed to be able to study Faust with Benno von Wiese, who was a guest professor that year. I never could have kept pace with Professor von Wiese without the higher level German that I gained from dating Mechthild. I love her still, though she stayed there and I came back to the land of Strassenkreuzer.

[@feli6958]

Please don’t feel bad about yourself for quitting the program. What you’ve been through - I can’t even imagine what it must feel like. I used to suffer from depression so i can imagine how you felt - but to have to cope with that in a foreign country constantly feeling alone without your family and friends for support that is definitely so much worse. If you would’ve stayed you probably would’ve gotten worse and that’s not the point of an exchange year. The point is to experience new culture, learn the language and especially have fun. But all of that suffered from your mental state and that’s just not the point of an exchange year. Please really try not to feel bad about that so you can get better now, I wish you the best :)

[@msjannd4]

You did what was best for you - I'm so glad you are now surrounded by the support you deserve and need. Mental health is so important! 😘

[@TomsTutorialsAndHowTos]

I went through a similar experience when I had an exchange year in 2001. I cut it off early due to home sickness and a bit of depression. Then, I came back later because I was still interested in Germany. But, if I hadn’t found my now wife, then girlfriend, quickly after arriving the second time in Germany, I probably wouldn’t have stayed.

[@jbcumming]

Lucky you!

[@antoniohidetoborgeskotsubo4924]

You did what you had to do. We're not here to judge you in any way and neither should you. You were strong enough to recognize your mental health needs and to make a decision that most of us would try to delay as much as possible even in a time of crisis. We like you because you are transparent, you tell us things the way they are. I wish there were more people like you on KZbin. For now, I can only say that you should be proud of yourself and that I wish you a good recovery. Have a nice 2022! :)

[@JazzybitRouvier]

You are so brave!!!! I think you made an amazingly hard and super good choice going back. I hope you recover soon.

[@bwayne40004]

Good luck dear. I wish you the best and I know you'll spring back very quickly. I stumbled on the vlog and enjoyed watching your adventure.

[@marliw]

I did the 2018-2019 year of CBYX, the last full year of the program before Covid. I had a really hard time in my first host family and developed some of the same issues you did, and that was without the added stress of a pandemic. I actually was on a swim team in Germany but wasn't able to get to and from practice regularly. I had the same problems with school too, participation-wise. Couldn't speak German fluently but my teachers expected me to be taking the tests and contributing in class. Things got a lot better for me around the end of December but that was only after I was able to switch host families and move to a better environment. I totally understand why you made the decision to come home. Sometimes it takes more bravery to leave than to stay.

[@itsmaddiek7719]

I'm a current student with the same problems. But I only have 2 months left so it might not be worth it to switch.

[@felixhannappel]

Du hast absolut das richtige gemacht! Danke für deine Offenheit! Hope you will feel better soon!

[@nadjaburri1639]

Hi ✨💕 I just wanted to tell you that i am really proud of you for taking care of yourself and prioritizing your mental health! You are really strong to be able to make that decision. I wish you can see that yourself ❤️ I know this was not what you planned but it was strong of you to get out of the situation and you can be proud of yourself for making the decision to look after your physical and emotional well-being 💕

[@Krachmaschinchen]

You're one tough cookie, with an awesome willpower and great survival instincts. As family dad with a son your age, I kept thinking (after watching your videos) you would have had a much easier time here in Berlin, a city as cosmopolitan as NYC, with several English-speaking high schools, tons of things to do, easy to get around etc. But I never got in touch to suggest it, which I regret now. But hey, who knows, you do know the German you do, and I can totally see you returning to this country as a student perhaps (there are great university student exchange programs, too), putting everything you learned here to good use. I hope 2022 will be a great year for you, you've learned things many grown-ups will never learn in a lifetime, and you're already a stronger person than most. Apologies for being so chatty here.

[@CCBBUUCC]

Hi, Thank you for this video. Very sad for you it didn’t worked as planned but don’t take it as a failure, you have learned a lot, things about yourself, culture/social differences (Germany/Europe are very different than the USA + the pandemic on the top of that 😩) and this experience might be helpful in the future…time heal Things will go better, you will quickly recover, I’m certain,… and maybe one day you’ll comeback in Europe for holidays…who knows 😊 (As a non German, like me, Berlin is more…appropriate I would say 😅) I wish you the best for your future and I’m looking forward for your next videos(but when you have time, first, think about yourself, it’s the most important…we can wait ☺️) Tschuss!! Cedric from Belgium

[@ashleyjennings1043]

love you bae. infinitely proud of you for standing up for yourself and sharing your experience with the world

[@hgonzalezm20]

You are so brave, I think you took the right decision, I imagine the idea of leving all behind was very hard and was in your mind for days but finally you did it :)

[@Rex_Lordship]

Happy New Year Ms. Ruby & Welcome Home! There’s No Place Like Home.

[@katietaylor7393]

hey caroline! you probably won’t see this but i’m also doing an exchange year here in germany. i cannot tell you how much i related to this video. i went through something really similar when omicron came around. i was so homesick, anxious, depressed, lonely, and on top of it i also developed a binge eating disorder. i just wanted to let you know you’re not alone and i hope you’re doing better ❤️❤️

[@carolineruby]

I’m so sorry you’ve had to face the same things during this time! i really hope things have gotten better for you and I’m proud of you for staying strong❤️

[@hannahs4929]

Hun that sounds so hard! It takes so much strength to make the right and healthy decision for yourself. Don’t be too hard on yourself for “quitting” You tried your best and made a mature choice. Good on you! All the best for your future from 🇨🇦

[@BlackAdder665]

I think you've made the right decision, Caroline! And although I can understand your feelings of regret, please, don't beat yourself up! It would have done nothing good to stay in Germany only because you once decided to do it. It's impossible to anticipate all that might come along, especially in a pandemic. As I mentioned under your other video, you handled this very good, given the circumstances. You're self-reflected and mature. Personally, I probably would have gone back home much earlier. All the best! 🙂 Michael

[@0luisakara0]

what a mature step to take, dear. quite the opposite of unsuccessful. i‘m a german and was on exchange in the US. my year was as hard as yours and i wish i had dared to care for myself and go home earlier. it took a huge toll on my mental health that i was miserable for a whole year. down the road i‘m sure you will be proud of yourself for quitting!

[@mattesrocket]

wooow, this was such a "crazily interesting" video. Reminded me so much on my experiences at a student exchange. It is so useful that you shared all this because from this bad experience everybody can learn so much: it doesn't need to be THIS ONE BIG negative point in a situation, that ruins your mental health/your confidence/your contentment in daily life but also an unlucky "uncool combination" of things, that are all agains the needs, that should be satisfied by daily, naturally existing things/activities/friendly guys, all that lacking of fitting activities and nice people FOR YOU, this mixture of bad points can ruin your "base of happiness" in the same brutal way like a single big negative experience. Knowing this, it's good to look for an "emergency exit" at such a life situation and then go back or start new and mainly say "no, that was not nice, not for me, that's not my thing. Full stop". Was sad for you, but well done in the end 👍

[@candacebelako4413]

I think it shows real maturity to look at your life and know that sometimes we have to pivot. Bravo, and wishing you well.

[@SpeedCuberGuy]

It sounds like you made the right decision. I also studied German and went there on a trip after I graduated college. I hope being back home helps you to focus on mental health, and hopefully one day you can visit Germany again when the time feels right and when you can do it on your own terms.

[@backtointuition]

I can relate to everything you are saying. I had the exact thing except Covid, when I went to Australia. And I didn’t quit and I am still suffering with my eating disorder because of that. So I think it was the best decision you could make. 🙏🏼 hope you will get better now ❤️

[@andresjustus160]

Caroline, you did everything right. I hope, you will remember the good things and come back to Germany in the future, hopefully after covid...

[@JoergA74]

Hello Caroline, don't worry too much about your decision. It is tough times at the moment. It is great to have curious teens like you in Europe who look beyond the border of America, I wish there would be more of you. I did an exchange program with the US when I was at German Gymnasium and later studied for a year in the US, it really changed my life. Great to hear you stick with improving your German language skills, hope you get the chance to come back one day.

[@MyIRISSS]

I enjoyed this video very much because of your honesty! I think you made the perfect decision to get out of the troubled water before it would get so much worse. When I was in you age, I had similar issues and I lived in Germany for 17 years. I was born there because my parents moved to Germany for work. My home country is Slovenia. It is a different country and culture. Mental health is a issue and especially during Covid in a foreign country. Even for us, who could stay at home in our familiar environment it was very challenging. So take all your time you need to recover. Dont think of a big carer right now, dont stress yourself out. Everything will be fine. Just find a routine first. I go for a walk outside for hours every day. Find a good bock. Search for things you like. Have regular healthy meals with plenty vegetables and drink a lot of water. You will find your routine and get back on track!

[@wercreators4717]

All your points are valid and understandable. Your decision was well made for you and your journey. Congrats on doing what´s right for you.

[@lillyknc]

you did the right thing and i’m very sorry that you had that experience i am from germany and i get all the things you said.Germany is different that the us and the language is difficult too and then with covid i can’t i’m how difficult that was :/ I hope you’re doing better and maybe one day you’ll come back just to visit or smt like that :)

[@MrMeow10101]

I never would have lasted a year as a teenager in another country. Lasting a whole semester is impressive! Im honestly surprised why the exchange programs are a full year long. For young kids that seems excessive 🤔.

[@t.a.yeah.]

In my class were a few people that left for a half year. ^^

[@NoahKahan67]

You can do two weeks,three months,a half a year, 9 months, 11 months. I know of people who went a year and had a great year but I also know of people who really struggled for the complete year🤷🏼‍♀️

[@linajurgensen4698]

It’s not always a year, one of my former classmates went abroad for half a year.

[@ItsameAlex]

in Europe we have Erasmus which is half a year

[@fruzsimih7214]

I live in Central Europe and my sister went to the US as a high school student. She first wanted to stay until Christmas but then decided after a month she would stay the full year, including high school graduation. It was an amazing experience for her that pulled her out of some self-destructive habits (nothing too shocking, but still) she had as a teenager. She returned a much more collected, mature person.

[@elyserylance3861]

I’m so proud of you for trying you absolute best and pushing through. Being in a new environment with strangers and a foreign language sounds so scary but you managed to do it! it was very important that you focused on your mental and physical health over staying there. You will always remember these experiences no matter how long you stayed. I’m happy your back and I can’t wait to see you!! See you at school😉

[@elizabeth_jross]

you made the choice you felt was best for you and that's 100% perfectly fine. Sending you all my love and good vibes! 🤍

[@jakobengel770]

I personally had similar problems last year. I've been to Sweden and very alone for almost half a year without people around really. Every day I felt what you felt and so I know why you had to make this decision. I respect you for doing that. Still I decided to stay till the end of my year abroad and actually the last two months have been the best and I got the chance to really leave this great country in peace. If you want to have peace with Germany you might have to come back here again. Hope you can reconnect well in the US. :)

[@keti.rg.editzzz]

You did absolutely nothing wrong, mental health is so so important. I wish you speedy recovery 💞

[@elaine6739]

I resonated with this a lot not as an exchange student but as a transfer student in college. I experienced a lot of similar emotions and struggles with my eating & mental health my first year and decided to transfer to my state school after being alone and away from my family in New England my freshman year. Mental health is so so important and I'm glad you prioritized your happiness and health. It must have been a really hard decision to make.

[@wizardm]

Covid has affected many exchange students. My daughter had to leave the U.S. march 2021 because of the pandemic. She studied in Flagstaff AZ (NAU) and could not stay the full planned period because mostly everything shut down there at his time. Her american roommates and other foreign students left too so it made no sense to stay. You did the right decision. There was no good reason to stay under the circumstances you described. It was not a failure.