Spirit Cultural Exchange has been a sponsor of the J-1 BridgeUSA program since 2002. From the very first year, we have helped international university students form lasting connections and memories with their American Host Employers. On March 9th, we celebrated those bonds with an alumni event in Bogota, Colombia for our participants who previously spent their summer at Noah’s Ark Waterpark in Wisconsin Dells.
Alumni events like this are a great way to reaffirm the transformative power of international exchange programs. Anna Marie Mitchell, an International Account Executive at Spirit Cultural Exchange, was honored to attend this special event.
Thanks to Terraventura, one of our International Partners for the J-1 Work and Travel program, a group of individuals whose lives had intersected through the BridgeUSA program at Noah’s Ark Waterpark were able to come together for a heartwarming reunion.
The scene was set with snacks and drinks, creating the perfect atmosphere for reminiscing and reconnecting. For many, it was the first time they had seen each other since their time in Wisconsin Dells, some even spanning multiple years.
For those who had participated in the program multiple times, this reunion served as a testament to the lasting impact of their time at Noah’s Ark Waterpark. The fact that some were eagerly anticipating their return in 2024 spoke volumes about the impression that their experience had left on them.
Beyond the nostalgia and camaraderie, the event also provided a valuable opportunity for networking and language practice. Participants retold funny stories with coworkers on the job, talked about the American friends they made and activities they did outside of work, and shared roommate sagas.
“It was a wonderful event to network, practice their English, and a fun reunion for all.” – Anna Marie
Thank you to Noah’s Ark Waterpark and Terraventura for helping to make this experience possible!
Spirit Cultural Exchange is currently looking for American businesses to host international university students. If you are interested in hosting students from Colombia or another country, please click here to apply.