What happens when a high school student steps into a new country, a new culture, and a new way of seeing the world?
In this inspiring episode, Laura Barr sat down with Tim Taravella, Chair of the Rocky Mountain Rotary Youth Exchange (RMRYE), to explore the life-changing impact of international exchange programs for teens.
Tim brought his personal experience and deep professional insight to this conversation. He is a former foreign exchange student in Denmark and has spent years helping students from around the world live with host families in Colorado. Tim has overseen hundreds of exchanges through RMRYE, including his own son’s transformative year in Argentina. In addition, Tim serves as the U.S. State Department Responsible Officer for Rocky Mountain Rotary Youth Exchange.
What They Discussed
- Why cultural exchange is one of the most powerful growth opportunities for teens
- How the Rotary Youth Exchange program works—and what makes it uniquely accessible
- What families should know about safety, host families, and student support
- How a year abroad builds confidence, independence, empathy, and global awareness
- Real stories of students who returned home transformed
Whether families are actively considering studying abroad or simply curious about the benefits and logistics of cultural exchange, this episode offered insight, clarity, and inspiration from a leader deeply committed to global education!
About Tim Taravella
Tim Taravella is an experienced nonprofit executive with a 30-year track record of driving mission-focused results through innovative fundraising, community engagement, and organizational leadership. A former licensed funeral director, Tim brings a unique blend of empathy, professionalism, and cross-sector perspective to his work.
Learn More about RMRYE:
- Outbound Applications: Applications for 2027-28 will be due on November 1, 2026. Click on Study Abroad to request an application!
- Learn more about the Long Term Exchange Program (LTEP)
- Learn more about the Short Term Exchange Program (STEP)
Related Emerging Podcast Episodes:
- Episode 24: Across the Pond—Reasons Why You Might Want to Study Abroad in the UK or Ireland
- Episode 16: A Different Freshman Year: Exploration of VERTO Education
Related Emerging Blog Posts:
Thinking about international experiences as part of a broader college strategy? Our College Consulting program helps students build compelling, well-rounded applications—and cultural exchange experiences like Rotary can be a powerful part of that story.
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