This past summer, my typical school break turned into the adventure of a lifetime. The Summer Work and Travel Program wasn’t just about getting a paycheck; it was a chance to dive into a different culture, build confidence, and forge friendships that span the globe.

Stepping off the plane, I was immediately hit by the humid, heavy air of an American summer. The world smelled different—a mix of freshly cut grass, the sweet scent of barbecue, and the faint, exciting aroma of popcorn and fried dough from the amusement park where I would work.

Initial adjustments were a challenge. The language, though familiar, had its own rhythm, and local accents took some getting used to. But soon, I was speaking with a newfound confidence, my communication skills growing with every conversation. I learned to navigate the sprawling roads and experienced the distinct American “bigger is better” mindset, from the size of their soft drinks to the generous portions at local diners.

I worked hard as a Ride Operator at Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari, but the real magic happened off the clock. The J1 visa holder dorms became a true cultural hub, a place where laughter and stories were shared in a dozen different languages. Roommates from Kazakhstan, Thailand, Turkey, Romania, and the Philippines weren’t just peers—we became a family. We learned from each other, celebrated differences, and built a network of friends that stretches across continents.