This year is Spirit’s 20th anniversary as a designated BridgeUSA J-1 visa sponsor. To celebrate, Spirit is sharing inspiring alumni stories submitted to our “Spirit Alumni: Where Are They Now?” contest, demonstrating first-hand how our participant exchange experiences contribute to a “spirit” of international understanding in the world. This story was submitted by Rosanny G. from the Dominican Republic, who shared her story about her J-1 Work & Travel experience in the USA. Rosanny met university students from all over the world and wants to work at an educational center. Here’s what she had to say:
My Work & Travel Experience in the USA
Last year I had the opportunity to participate with you in the Summer Work and Travel program and I am happy to share part of my adventure with you. I had the opportunity to work at Mt. Olympus and there I met a very wide cultural diversity. There were people from all over the world. There were young people from Puerto Rico, Colombia, Ecuador, Jamaica, Bahamas, China, Turkey and the United States.
I was able to improve my English, I acquired more responsibility with my chores, I interacted with my classmates and I made friends from other cultures and beliefs different from mine.
What Am I Doing Now?
The importance of this program is so beneficial both personally and academically. I am currently dedicated to forming more bonds of friendship, advancing in my major, and sharing with my family, especially with my little nephew Julian.
I want to work in an educational center and feel that I am a great support for the students. I also show you my favorite place in my university “The Pedro Mir Library.” I love taking photos of it every time I come. The Universidad Autonoma de Santo Domingo has a beautiful university campus and the murals of the faculties are so incredible! Well, you can see how magnificent the library looks.
Thank you very much Spirit!!!
Thank you, Rosanny!
We think it’s awesome that you got to experience American culture and want to return to the United States. Thanks for sharing with us!
If you are a Spirit Alumni with an inspiring story to tell, please consider sharing your experience with us. Learn more about the “Spirit Alumni: Where Are They Now?” contest.